Roulin’s Baby (1888)

The painting "Roulin's Baby" by Vincent Van Gogh from 1888 captures the image of a young infant with a remarkably expressive face. Painted predominantly in light and pastel colors, the baby is shown wearing a traditional white bonnet, which is delicately detailed with lace or frills at its edges. The visible brushstrokes give a rich texture to the painting, emphasizing the distinctive style of Van Gogh. The baby's bright blue eyes are wide open, and there's a curious and almost contemplative expression on its face. The lips appear slightly parted, and the cheeks are tinged with a rosy hue, which adds to the lifelike quality of the portrait.Van Gogh’s technique of using thick, swirling brush strokes lends a dynamic texture to the skin and clothing of the baby, evoking both the softness and the immediacy of a child's form. The background is rendered in a simple, unobtrusive green, ensuring that the focus remains firmly on the baby. This painting is not just a portrait but also an exploration of human expression and the innocence of childhood, treated with Van Gogh's characteristic empathy and intensity. The attention to detail, particularly in capturing the luminosity of the baby’s gaze, showcases Van Gogh’s mastery in portraying human subjects with emotional depth and visual impact.