Windmill of Montmartre
Scene depicted
This painting offers a striking glimpse of the famous windmills of Montmartre. The turning sails capture movement, immutable and fleeting, within a rich and vibrant nature. The faint clouds above and the nuanced ground recall the bohemian life of the time, where each brushstroke tells a forgotten story.
Historical context
Created in 1886 , this captivating painting finds its origins in the vibrant city of Paris , at the heart of the Impressionist era. Windmill of Montmartre is a pictorial work that crystallizes the emotions and light of this iconic neighborhood, whose artistic essence resides in every brushstroke. Currently, the painting is in a private collection, with dimensions of 38 x 46.5 cm .
Place in the artist's career
Windmill of Montmartre stands as a key piece in van Gogh's career. This period, marked by a bold style and an exploration of colors, heralds paintings such as The Starry Night and The Sunflowers . Each of these works represents a step forward in his mastery of color and composition.
Anecdote
Vincent van Gogh once stated: "I want to capture the light of day in my painting." In this masterpiece , inspired by a tranquil spring morning, he attempts to seize the harmony between the sky and the windmill, a scene softened by the gentle breeze lifting the floral scents of an artistically vibrant Montmartre.