Vincent Willem van GOGH (1853-1890), Road with cypress and star, 1890

Color lithograph, heavy vellum paper 45 x 35 cm (composition), 70 x 50 cm (sheet), limited edition, numbered in pencil 116/250, signed under composition facsimile signature "Vincent van Gogh" p.d.; dry publisher's stamp: S.P.A.D.E.M. PARIS l.d., hologram "verification of authenticity" on the back.Vincent Willem van Gogh Dutch Post-Impressionist painter whose work, with its vivid colors and emotional impact, had a far-reaching influence on 20th century art. The artist suffered from anxiety attacks and increasing seizures due to a mental disorder. He died at the age of 37 as an artist unknown to the general public, as a result of a gunshot - probably a suicide.
"Road with cypress and star" (hol. "Weg met cipres en ster") is a painting by Vincent van Gogh painted in May 1890, during his stay in the hospital in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, which was a period of intense creative work for him, despite his mental health problems.Van Gogh used the impasto technique, or the application of paint in thick layers, which creates texture and a three-dimensional effect on the canvas. Impasto allows for strong, dynamic brushstrokes that add energy and intensity to the painting. Van Gogh often used short, curved brushstrokes that add movement and expression to his paintings.
Van Gogh, through his distinctive brushstrokes and intense colors, captures both the tranquility of the night landscape and inner emotions. The cypress trees, which in many cultures symbolize death and eternity, may suggest contemplation on life and transience. The stars in the sky add an element of hope and transcendence to the painting.
This painting is one of many in which van Gogh used the motif of cypress trees and stars, reflecting his fascination with nature and the night sky. The artist wrote in his letters that "the night is more vivid and colorful than the day."
"Road with Cypress and Star" is currently housed at the Kröller-Müller Museum in Otterlo, the Netherlands. This museum has one of the largest collections of Vincent van Gogh's works in the world, making it an important place for lovers of his work.