The artwork titled “Portrait of the Postman Joseph Roulin,” created by the esteemed artist Vincent van Gogh in the year 1889 in Arles, Bouches-du-Rhône, France, is an oil painting on canvas. This Post-Impressionist piece, measuring 65 by 54 centimeters, belongs to the portrait genre and is currently held in the Kröller-Müller Museum located in Otterlo, Netherlands.
The artwork vividly captures the likeness of Joseph Roulin, the postman, with meticulous attention to his abundant, flowing beard and deeply expressive eyes. Van Gogh’s characteristic bold and swirling brushstrokes convey a sense of movement and life, not only in the detailed rendering of Roulin’s figure but also in the dynamic background adorned with floral motifs. The vibrant greens and the intricate patterns surrounding the postman create a striking contrast, highlighting the sitter’s presence and personality. The hat bearing the inscription “POSTES” signifies his profession, adding context and substance to the portrayal. The piece is an exemplary illustration of Van Gogh’s ability to infuse his compositions with emotional depth and vividness, epitomizing the Post-Impressionist movement’s innovative spirit.
