Head of a Peasant Woman with White Cap 1885

Vincent van Gogh's "Head of a Peasant Woman with White Cap", now at the Kröller-Müller Museum, immediately strikes us with its bold brushstrokes and earthy palette, evoking a sense of raw, unvarnished reality. The composition is simple, focusing intently on the woman’s face and headgear against a dark, almost brooding background. Van Gogh's expressive use of impasto brings a tactile quality to the painting, with each stroke contributing to the overall form. This technique moves beyond mere representation. It almost seems to embody the very essence of his subject, creating a tangible presence that disrupts conventional portraiture. Consider how Van Gogh uses the white cap to frame the woman's face, drawing our eyes to her direct, unwavering gaze. The subtle interplay of light and shadow across her features creates a sense of depth. This, and the expressive brushwork, challenges our perceptions and invites contemplation. It's a space where the boundaries between the subject, the artist, and the viewer blur, offering a profound engagement.