Houses in Les Saintes-Maries Vincent van Gogh (1853-1890)

The drawing presents a cluster of modest dwellings arranged within a rural setting. Here we observe a collection of simple structures, characterized by steeply pitched roofs and rudimentary construction. The buildings appear weathered and somewhat dilapidated, suggesting a history of exposure to the elements and perhaps a degree of neglect. A cross is visible atop one of the structures, hinting at a religious presence within this community.
The artist employed a rapid, energetic line work to depict the scene. Short, choppy strokes define the forms of the buildings and vegetation, creating a sense of immediacy and vitality. The density of these lines varies, with areas of dense hatching used to suggest shadow and depth, while sparser markings indicate lighter surfaces. This technique lends a textural quality to the drawing, emphasizing the rough materiality of the scene.
The foreground is dominated by thick brushstrokes that represent tall grasses or reeds, obscuring parts of the buildings and creating a sense of enclosure. These plants seem almost to encroach upon the structures, blurring the boundaries between built environment and natural landscape. A small object – possibly a tool or piece of discarded equipment – lies in the lower right corner, adding a touch of domesticity and hinting at the everyday lives of the inhabitants.
The composition is somewhat asymmetrical, with the buildings clustered towards the center and extending into the background. The perspective appears flattened, lacking a strong sense of depth. This contributes to a feeling of intimacy and immediacy, as if the viewer were standing close to the scene.
Subtly, the drawing conveys a mood of quiet solitude and resilience. The simple dwellings and unadorned landscape suggest a life lived in harmony with nature, far removed from urban complexities. Theres an underlying sense of melancholy evoked by the dilapidated state of the buildings, perhaps alluding to the passage of time or the hardships faced by those who inhabit this place. Ultimately, the work captures a fleeting moment in the lives of a rural community, offering a glimpse into their modest existence and enduring spirit.