Madame Roulin Rocking the Cradle (La berceuse)

"Madame Roulin Rocking the Cradle (La berceuse)" is a painting by Vincent van Gogh created in 1889. The work depicts Augustine Roulin, the wife of postman Joseph Roulin, who was a close friend of the artist. Van Gogh painted this piece during his stay at the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole asylum in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, France. The painting is characterized by its vibrant colors and expressive brushwork, typical of Van Gogh's style during this period. The composition features Madame Roulin cradling a baby, symbolizing maternal care and tenderness. The use of bold outlines and contrasting colors enhances the emotional impact of the scene. This work is part of a series of portraits of the Roulin family, reflecting Van Gogh's interest in capturing the essence of his subjects. "Madame Roulin Rocking the Cradle" is currently housed in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art in New York City.

"Madame Roulin Rocking the Cradle (La berceuse)" is an oil on canvas painting by Vincent van Gogh, created in 1889. The composition features Madame Roulin, the wife of the postman Joseph Roulin, depicted in a serene domestic setting. She is shown seated, gently rocking a cradle, with her gaze directed towards the viewer, conveying a sense of maternal tenderness. The color palette is characterized by rich, warm tones, including deep blues, vibrant yellows, and earthy browns, which enhance the emotional resonance of the scene. Van Gogh employs expressive brushwork, with visible, swirling strokes that create a dynamic texture throughout the painting. The background is rendered in a simplified manner, emphasizing the figure of Madame Roulin and the cradle, while the use of contrasting colors draws attention to her clothing and the surrounding environment. The overall composition reflects Van Gogh's interest in the themes of motherhood and domesticity, encapsulated in a moment of quiet intimacy.