Commemorating Van Gogh's ear

December 23, 2023

On December 23rd 1888, Van Gogh made the dramatic decision to cut off a portion of his own ear. This haunting incident has become one of the most widely known facts about the Dutch painter, in addition to his association with sunflowers, wheat fields, and starry skies.

Vincent van Gogh's life was characterised by a relentless pursuit of artistic excellence, often coupled with inner turmoil and mental health struggles. The episode of self-mutilation, during a period of emotional turbulence, has been the subject of speculation and fascination for art historians and enthusiasts alike.

At the time of the incident, Van Gogh was living in Arles, France, and had developed a close yet tumultuous friendship with fellow artist Paul Gauguin. The reasons behind Van Gogh's decision to sever a part of his own ear remain elusive, with theories ranging from a heated argument with Gauguin to a symbolic act of artistic sacrifice. Whatever the catalyst, this event became a poignant chapter in the artist's tumultuous life.

In the aftermath of that fateful night, Van Gogh's mental health deteriorated, leading to his voluntary admission to a psychiatric hospital. Despite the challenges he faced, his artistic output continued with fervour. The iconic works produced during his time in the asylum, such as Starry Night and Irises stand as a testament to the enduring power of creativity even in the face of personal struggles.

This incident serves as a reminder that art is often born from the depths of human struggle. Van Gogh's story is one of passion, pain, and the unyielding pursuit of artistic expression. His ability to transform personal suffering into timeless masterpieces is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. He certainly inspires us – check out our Van Gogh-inspired prints.

Image credit: Vincent van Gogh, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons