Starry Night Over the Rhône (1888) captures van Gogh's distinctive vision of Arles, France, where he painted this mesmerising nocturnal scene. The artwork showcases his characteristic impasto technique, with thick, expressive brushstrokes creating a vibrant dance of light across the water. The gas lighting from the town reflects in the river, creating golden spears that pierce the deep blues of the night, while two lovers stroll along the foreground, dwarfed by the vast celestial display above.
Van Gogh created this piece during one of his most productive periods, just months before his more widely known 'The Starry Night'. Unlike its successor, this painting demonstrates a more grounded approach to reality, with recognisable architectural elements and a careful attention to the actual position of the stars, including the Ursa Major constellation. The artist was particularly drawn to night scenes during this period, writing to his sister Willemien about the profound beauty he found in the evening sky.
The painting exemplifies van Gogh's unique ability to infuse seemingly ordinary scenes with extraordinary emotional depth. His bold colour choices - particularly the contrasting yellows against deep blues - create a sense of movement and vitality that transforms a simple riverfront view into something almost supernatural. This work was completed during a period when van Gogh was experiencing both intense creativity and personal struggles, making it a particularly poignant reflection of his artistic vision and emotional state.
