La Berceuse (Woman Rocking a Cradle; Augustine-Alix Pellicot Roulin, 1851–1930). Vincent van Gogh. Vincent van Gogh - La Berceuse (Woman Rocking a Cradle; Augustine-Alix Pellicot Roulin, 1851–1930).jpg (source). Public domain — PD-Art.
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La Berceuse (Woman Rocking a Cradle; Augustine-Alix Pellicot Roulin, 1851–1930)
Vincent van Gogh · 1889, January
- Catalog
- F505
- Date
- 1889, January
- Place painted
- Arles
- Museum
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art
- Medium
- Oil on canvas
About the painting
La Berceuse, meaning "the lullaby," is a deeply empathetic portrait of Augustine Roulin, a close friend of Van Gogh's. He painted several versions, aiming to create a comforting image for sailors at sea. Augustine is depicted seated, hands clasped, with a serene expression. The background features vibrant floral wallpaper, depicted with Van Gogh's swirling brushstrokes and intense colors – often brilliant yellow, red, and green. This decorative background, along with the ropes in her hands (for a cradle), contributes to the painting's symbolic nature. The warm, rich palette evokes solace and maternal love. Van Gogh desired to create an image providing comfort and a reminder of home, transforming it into an archetype of nurturing and stability.
Collection: The Metropolitan 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.