Bowl with Peonies and Roses 1886

Vincent van Gogh painted 'Bowl with Peonies and Roses' while he was staying in an asylum in Saint-Rémy. In the late 19th century, the language of flowers was well known. Certain blooms were associated with specific meanings. Think about how the choice of these specific flowers allows Van Gogh to communicate his feelings in a delicate manner. Van Gogh's identity as an artist was deeply entwined with his emotional and mental struggles. During his stay at the asylum, painting became a vital means of expression, perhaps catharsis, and perhaps communication. The vibrant colors and dynamic brushwork convey a sense of vitality, as if Van Gogh sought to capture the fleeting beauty of life amidst the darkness of his inner turmoil. The fact that the blooms are cut also brings a certain melancholy to the piece. Van Gogh's choice of such a traditional subject matter, still life, allowed him to push the boundaries of representation while grappling with his personal demons.