Vincent Van Gogh
(1853-1890)

Think that you may own a painting by Vincent van Gogh? We authenticate, appraise and issue Certificates of Authenticity (COA) for all paintings by Vincent van Gogh.

An unsuccessful commercial artists in life, Vincent van Gogh is perhaps one of the most tragic and creative artists to have come out of the 19th century. Van Gogh is generally considered one of the greatest Dutch painters next to Rembrandt, and his paintings are among the most valuable and collectible pieces of art in the world. His use of color, brushstroke technique and themes were revolutionary, and echoed the mental illnesses (schizophrenia and epilepsy among them) that plagued him and eventually caused his death. At one time he even attempted to take the life of fellow painter Paul Gauguin, and eventually took his own life.

Van Gogh has left the art world with many unanswered questions, mysteries, and an oeuvre of valuable paintings. The market for works by van Gogh is very quiet, even if from time to time there is a thunderous sale. Most years, as few as 15 to 30 van Gogh paintings may change hands. It is not that the body of his work is so limited; he left some 2,200 pieces including drawings and sketches for instance. Rather, it seems to be that owners of a van Gogh want to keep it and to live with it longer.

In fact, if you have a doubt as to whether or not you indeed own a Vincent van Gogh piece, you may be able to use “The Starry Night” as a jumping ground for comparison. At this time, Vincent was one of the few to use such bold colors and brush strokes, way before the Fauve movement after the turn of the century. His themes are usually dark; nearly empty rooms, quiet waterfront or café scenes or the French countryside. Though born in the Netherlands, Vincent worked and studied in Paris and lived there until his death. Most of his work is either based on Dutch or French life, and can easily be recognized by style. His portraiture is rarely flattering, but crude, and is perhaps why he did not have many patrons during his lifetime. However, now these crude portraits, like “La Mousme”, which is housed in the National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C., are considered masterful works of art for their unusual take on a subject.

Back to Artists