Blossoming Almond Tree Vincent van Gogh (1853-1890)

Description of Vincent van Gogh’s painting Almond Blossom Branches

Vincent Van Gogh was a Dutch painter with a very sad fate. In his short life he managed everything and at the same time nothing. During his artistic journey, he failed to earn the respect of his peers and customers and remained unclaimed for the rest of his life. But after his death Van Gogh gained recognition and fame. He became famous throughout the world as an Impressionist, although he repeatedly rejected this judgement.

Today he is one of the most recognizable artists, along with Pablo Picasso. Van Gogh proved to be a very prolific author, leaving behind a huge creative legacy and many followers. The painting Almond Blossom (Almond Tree in Bloom) was one of his last works. The artist painted it in the winter of 1890, after his brother Theo informed him of the birth of his nephew.

The painting is symbolic and carries profound connotations. The branches of almonds blossom very early and, according to the author, they represent the beginning of a new life.

Van Gogh always used colorful colors and lively composition. This canvas is notable for the fact that it is executed in a manner not typical of the artist, and the color scheme is quite limited. Yellow, which characterizes Van Gogh is absent. Turquoise sky looks bright and carefree, not a single cloud overshadows this beautiful spring day.

On the spectacular background are flowers, a harbinger of spring, warmth and joy of life. The compositional solution remains not quite clear: is it part of the bouquet on a bright background or tree branches floating above the boundless sky. All the space of the picture is occupied by almonds, so masterfully painted by Van Gogh.

The artist has managed to maintain the rhythm of the canvas. Clearly visible self-control, self-discipline and clarity of line, which is peculiar only to Van Gogh. In his letter to his brother, Van Gogh said that this was his first work, of which he was justly proud.