Head of a Man (Study of a Peasant's Head). Vincent van Gogh. Van Gogh - Kopf eines jungen Bauern mit Mütze2.jpeg (source). Public domain — PD-Art.
Head of a Man (Study of a Peasant's Head)
Vincent van Gogh · 1885, March
- Catalog
- F165
- Date
- 1885, March
- Place painted
- Nuenen
- Museum
- The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
- Medium
- Oil on canvas
About the painting
Painted during his formative Nuenen period, Head of a Man (Study of a Peasant's Head) exemplifies Van Gogh's deep empathy for the rural working class. This intimate portrait focuses intently on the man's weathered face, rendered with a somber palette of earthy browns, grays, and ochres. Van Gogh's characteristic thick, textured brushstrokes build up the features, emphasizing the lines and contours etched by a life of labor. The painting is a powerful character study, showcasing his commitment to portraying the unvarnished reality and inherent dignity of his subjects. It's a fundamental example of his early style, demonstrating his intense observation and desire to capture the soul of the common person.
Collection: The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Whether it is currently on view should be confirmed with the museum before visiting.
Research note: this entry is based on an evolving catalog. Dates, attribution, location and visitor information should be verified against the institution’s current records.