Lullaby – Augustine Roulin Vincent van Gogh (1853-1890)

This painting depicts Augustine Roulin, the wife of the Arles postman Joseph Roulin. She is shown from the chest up, seated in a wooden chair, with her hands clasped in her lap. Her face is rendered in vibrant yellow, and she stares downwards with a pensive expression. She wears a dark green jacket over a light blue blouse and a green skirt. The background is a textured green, adorned with white and yellow flowers and swirling vines.
The subtexts of this painting are multifaceted. Van Goghs characteristic use of intense color, particularly the prominent yellow of Augustines face, conveys a sense of inner emotion and perhaps even distress. The downward gaze and clasped hands suggest a mood of contemplation, sadness, or weariness, which may be amplified by the title Lullaby, implying a mothers quiet concern or a song of comfort. The floral background, while decorative, can be interpreted as representing nature and life, providing a contrast to the subdued human presence. The bold patterns might also symbolize the overwhelming sensory environment of Arles, where Van Gogh spent a significant period of his artistic career. Overall, the painting is a powerful and emotive portrait that explores themes of inner life, maternal sentiment, and the artists personal connection with his subjects.