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Vincent van Gogh - Weaver Facing Left with Spinning Wheel 1884

« previous picture | Nuenen - van Gogh's paintings | next picture » From Boston Museum of Fine Arts: Van Gogh’s feeling for the working poor is evident from his earliest works. In 1883-84, he executed at least twenty-eight oil paintings, drawings, and watercolors of the weavers in the district near his family’s home in the Netherlands. His interest was aroused not only by the subject, but by the somber effect of the dark wood and gray walls, contrasting with the red cloth on the loom.

The Letters of Vincent van Gogh

To Theo van Gogh. Paris, Saturday, 24 July 1875.
My dear Theo,
A couple of days ago we got a painting by De Nittis, a view of London on a rainy day, Westminster Bridge and the Houses of Parliament. I crossed Westminster Bridge every morning and evening and know what it looks like when the sun’s setting behind Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament, and what it’s like early in the morning, and in the winter with snow and fog.
When I saw this painting I felt how much I love London.
Yet I believe it’s good for me to be away from it. This in answer to your question. I certainly don’t think that you’ll be going to London. Thanks for ‘Aus der Jugendzeit’ and ‘Um Mitternacht’ by Rückert. It’s poignantly beautiful; the latter made me think of ‘La nuit de Décembre’ by Musset. I wish I could send it to you, but don’t have it.
Yesterday we sent a crate to The Hague, what I had promised you was in it.
I hear that Anna and Lies are at home; I’d like to see them again. I wish you the very best, and write again soon. With a handshake
Your loving brother
Vincent