Vincent van Gogh’s “Road with Cypress and Star” is a painting created in 1890 during his stay in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, France. Also known as “Country Road in Provence by Night,” it is the last painting he made before leaving the asylum where he was receiving treatment. The artwork includes symbols and images that were important to Van Gogh at that point in his life.
One of the recurring motifs in Van Gogh’s art was the Cypress tree, which he was fascinated by. In this painting, several Cypress trees are depicted alongside a winding road under a starry night sky. Short, swirling brushstrokes and highly contrasting colors are used to create an ethereal effect.
Astronomers have analyzed the celestial objects present in the painting, suggesting that Van Gogh accurately depicted certain constellations visible from Southern France at that time of year. Moreover, it shares many motifs with “The Starry Night,” one of Van Gogh’s most famous works.
“Road with Cypress and Star” can be seen as a representation of Van Gogh’s love for nature whilst also providing insight into his emotions during his confinement in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. This piece is now part of the Van Gogh collection at the Kröller-Müller Museum in the Netherlands and can be handcrafted as museum-quality reproduction for those who appreciate its beauty and significance.