Irises

Irises, painted in 1889 during Vincent van Gogh’s stay at the asylum in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, is one of his most celebrated floral works. Inspired by the garden around him, Van Gogh captured a cluster of blooming irises in rich shades of violet-blue, set against the vibrant greens of their leaves and the soft earth below.

Using energetic, flowing brushstrokes and a vivid, contrasting palette, Van Gogh transformed the simple subject into a dynamic and emotionally resonant composition. Influenced by Japanese prints, the flattened perspective and decorative rhythm of the piece emphasize the natural beauty and individuality of each bloom. Irises is both a meditation on nature and a reflection of the artist’s search for peace during a turbulent period in his life.