First Steps, after Millet

Vincent van Gogh

Created:
Movement:
1890
Post-Impressionism
key Notes:
"Familial Intimacy" "Pastoral Scene"
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Dimensions:
28 1/2 x 35 7/8 in. (72.4 x 91.1 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
Difficulty:
Easy
New game
story of the work:

"First Steps, after Millet" is a painting by Vincent van Gogh created in 1890, shortly before his death. The work is a homage to Jean-François Millet, a French painter known for his depictions of peasant life. Van Gogh's painting illustrates a mother guiding her child as they take their first steps, reflecting themes of nurturing and familial bonds. The composition is characterized by bold colors and expressive brushwork, typical of Van Gogh's late style. This piece is part of the collection at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam. The exact circumstances of its creation are not well-documented, and specific influences from Millet's work are not detailed. The painting exemplifies Van Gogh's admiration for Millet and his focus on rural life.

Description of the work:

"First Steps, after Millet" is an oil on canvas painting by Vincent van Gogh, created in 1890. The composition features a young child taking its first steps, supported by an adult figure, set against a rural backdrop. The figures are rendered with bold, expressive brushstrokes characteristic of van Gogh's style. The color palette is dominated by earthy tones, with vibrant accents that highlight the figures' movement. The background is simplified, emphasizing the emotional connection between the figures. The painting reflects van Gogh's admiration for Jean-François Millet, evident in the subject matter and the portrayal of peasant life. The work conveys a sense of tenderness and the significance of familial bonds. The overall composition is dynamic, capturing a moment of growth and transition.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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First Steps, after Millet