Portrait of Postman Roulin. Vincent van Gogh. Vincent van Gogh - Portrait of Postman Roulin - 1996.25 - Detroit Institute of Arts.jpg (source). Public domain — PD-Art.
Portrait of Postman Roulin
Vincent van Gogh · 1888, early August
- Catalog
- F433
- Date
- 1888, early August
- Place painted
- Arles
- Museum
- Detroit Institute of Arts
- Medium
- Oil on canvas
About the painting
One of Van Gogh's most iconic portraits, the Portrait of Postman Roulin, captures his deep admiration for his friend Joseph Roulin in Arles. Van Gogh sought to depict him not just as a man but as an archetype, describing him as a "Socrates of the ordinary man." Roulin's robust, kindly face is rendered with bold outlines and a rich, textured application of paint. His distinctive uniform, with its strong blues and yellows, dominates the canvas. The background, often a vibrant green with swirling floral motifs, provides an energetic counterpoint, echoing the patterns of life. This portrait exemplifies Van Gogh's belief in painting the soul, using color and form to express profound character and humanity.
Collection: Detroit Institute of Arts. 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.