Artwork
Head of a Man
Head of a Man is an oil painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Vincent van Gogh. It is held in the collection of the Kröller-Müller Museum.
About this work
Overview
Vincent van Gogh painted Head of a Man in 1893 using oil on canvas. The work presents a solitary male figure in profile, rendered with the artist’s characteristic vigor. It is part of the collection of the Kröller‑Müller Museum in the Netherlands.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait shows a peasant‑type man with dark hair, a full beard, and a high‑collared jacket. The figure’s plain attire and unadorned background suggest a focus on the individual’s character rather than narrative detail, emphasizing the dignity of ordinary laborers.
Technique & Style
Van Gogh employs bold, expressive brushstrokes that leave a palpable texture on the canvas. The palette is restrained, with the dark clothing set against a light, almost neutral background, creating a stark contrast that draws attention to the facial features.
History & Provenance
Created during Van Gogh’s early Dutch period, the painting later entered the collection of the Kröller‑Müller Museum, a major repository of his work. Its acquisition reflects the museum’s focus on assembling a comprehensive representation of the artist’s oeuvre.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Vincent Willem van Gogh was a Dutch Post-Impressionist painter who is among the most famous and influential figures in the history of Western art.
