Portrait of the Postman Joseph Roulin Vincent van Gogh (1853-1890)

This is a portrait of Joseph Roulin, a postman, painted by Vincent van Gogh. Roulin is depicted seated, wearing his dark blue postmans uniform, adorned with bright yellow buttons. His cap, also blue, proudly displays the word POSTES in yellow lettering. He has a full, bushy beard and a mustache, and his gaze is directed forward, towards the viewer. His hands are relaxed, one resting on his lap and the other slightly extended. The background is a soft, hazy blue, creating a subtle contrast with the vibrant colors of Roulins uniform and skin. Van Goghs characteristic impasto technique is evident in the thick application of paint, with visible brushstrokes adding texture and energy to the portrait.
The subtexts embedded within this portrait are multifold. Van Gogh aimed to capture not just Roulins physical likeness but also his character and his place in society. The bold colors and strong lines convey a sense of Roulins solidity and reliability, reflecting his important role as a carrier of communication and connection within the community. The postmans uniform, with its official insignia, signifies his dignity and public service. Van Goghs personal friendship with Roulin is also a key subtext; the artist was known to paint multiple portraits of his friends and family, imbuing each with a warmth and intimacy that spoke to his deep affection. Furthermore, the portrait can be seen as a celebration of the working class and the quiet heroism of everyday life, a theme that resonated deeply with Van Gogh. The slightly rough, yet honest, depiction reflects his admiration for Roulins straightforward nature and his ability to find beauty in the ordinary.