Artwork
Portrait of Alexander Reid
Portrait of Alexander Reid is an oil painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Vincent van Gogh. It is held in the collection of the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum.
About this work
Overview
Vincent van Gogh painted a portrait of Alexander Reid in 1894 using oil on canvas. The work shows a seated gentleman with a reddish‑brown beard and mustache, dressed in a white shirt beneath a dark jacket. The figure’s gaze is directed downward, his brow slightly furrowed, conveying a restrained, introspective mood.
Subject & Meaning
The sitter, Alexander Reid, is presented with a neutral expression that suggests contemplation rather than overt emotion. Van Gogh’s choice to depict Reid’s eyes looking away and his mouth set in a straight line emphasizes a quiet, inward focus, inviting viewers to consider the personal or professional demeanor of the man portrayed.
Technique & Style
The portrait is marked by Van Gogh’s characteristic vigorous brushwork, especially evident in the background where reds, oranges, and yellows intermingle in dynamic strokes. The palette contrasts the subdued tones of the figure’s clothing, while the textured application of paint adds a sense of immediacy and vitality to the composition.
History & Provenance
Since its creation, the painting has become part of the collection at Glasgow’s Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. The work entered the museum’s holdings through acquisition in the early 20th century, where it remains on display as part of the institution’s representation of Van Gogh’s later period.
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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.
