Girl in White by Vincent van Gogh Playing Cards

Girl in White was painted in 1890 by Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh, during his final year in Auvers, France, just outside Paris. In a letter to a friend, Van Gogh described his artistic focus at the time: “I am trying to do some studies of wheat . . . nothing but ears of wheat with green-blue stalks, long leaves like ribbons of green shot with pink, ears that are just turning yellow, edged with the pale pink of the dusty bloom—a pink bindweed at the bottom twisted round a stem. Over that, against a vivid yet tranquil background, I should like to paint some portraits.” This portrait is dominated by the colour white, symbolizing purity, innocence, and youth, yet it also conveys vulnerability and melancholy. The girl’s bright white dress contrasts with the pale yellow background accented with soft green leaves. Her downcast gaze and expression of sadness and introspection bring an emotional depth to the painting, creating a poignant contrast to its luminous colours. Girl in White captures Van Gogh’s ability to balance light and emotion, making this piece a timeless masterpiece of his late work.