The artwork titled “Drawbridge with Walking Couple,” created by Vincent van Gogh in 1888 in Arles, Bouches-du-Rhône, France, is a notable piece within the Post-Impressionism movement. Executed in ink on paper, this sketch and study is housed at the Morgan Library and Museum (Pierpont Morgan Library) in New York City, NY, US.
In this artwork, van Gogh presents a detailed depiction of a drawbridge with a couple walking along the riverbank. The scene captures a tranquil moment under a radiant sun, as the drawbridge stands prominently in the background. The couple is portrayed in the forefront, walking closely, seemingly deep in conversation or contemplation. The setting is enriched with elements of the natural landscape including the river’s flow and the surrounding vegetation, illustrated with fine lines and characteristic dynamism. The scene is further annotated by handwritten notes, adding a layer of personal context to the piece. This sketch not only exhibits van Gogh’s adeptness with ink but also his ability to convey intimate human experiences within everyday landscapes.
