Vincent van Gogh Almond Blossom Vase

On January 31, 1890, van Gogh’s brother Theo wrote to announce the birth of his son, named Vincent Willem van Gogh. In celebration of his newly arrived namesake, Vincent immediately began painting. He selected the almond tree to symbolize new life as the tree blooms as early as February, heralding the coming of spring.

The composition of the painting is very different from Vincent’s other works. The influence of Japanese prints is clear in the positioning of the tree and the boldly outlined branches. The soft white blossoms with their delicate pink shading make a beautiful contrast against the gnarled branches and multi-hued azure sky.