“The Langlois Bridge at Arles,” created by Vincent van Gogh in 1888 in Arles, Bouches-du-Rhône, France, is a watercolor on paper that belongs to the Japonism art movement. This landscape artwork is currently held in a private collection.
The artwork depicts the Langlois Bridge, a drawbridge in Arles. Dominating the scene is the robust structure of the bridge stretching across a tranquil waterway, reflecting the influence of Japanese art with its clean lines and emphasis on nature. A horse-drawn carriage is shown crossing the bridge, while groups of figures engage in their daily activities by the riverbanks, possibly washing clothes or fishing. The composition is vibrant, with the use of bold colors and dynamic brush strokes, characteristic of van Gogh’s expressive style. The luminous colors and detailed rendering of the natural environment evoke a serene yet lively rural ambiance.
