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Vincent van Gogh began painting Starry Night Over the Rhône in Arles, France, inspired by the muted reflections of gas lamps and starlight on the Rhône River.
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Contents
Quick facts about Starry Night on the Rhone
Artist: Vincent van Gogh
Date: September 1888
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 73.7 cm × 92.1 cm (29.0 in × 36.3 in)
Location: The Orsay Museum, Paris
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The story behind Starry Night Over the Rhône
Creation and inspiration
Experience the painting
The small details: The intimate detail of a couple strolling along the riverbank adds a personal and romantic touch, while the shimmering water painted on canvas looks realistic.
Van Gogh’s brushwork: His textured, swirling strokes bring life to the water and sky, creating a sense of movement even in stillness.
Lighting and reflections: The warm glow of the gas lamps lining the river adds depth to the composition, balancing the cool blues of the night sky with golden yellows.
Harmony of colors: The interplay of soft blues, deep greens, and shimmering yellows creates a mood of peacefulness, perfectly capturing the beauty of a calm evening in Arles.
Historical context: Painted during Van Gogh’s time in Arles in 1888, it reflects his fascination with capturing the emotional essence of night scenes, a recurring theme in his work.
How the painting compares to The Starry Night in MoMa
Scene
Starry Night Over the Rhône
The Starry Night
The scene
A calm night in Arles, France, with starlight and city lights shimmering on the Rhône River.
Swirling white stars and a dramatic cypress tree reaching towards the crescent moon.
Atmosphere
Serene and tranquil with calm reflections.
Turbulent and intense.
Color Palette
Gentle blues and yellows, a serene effect.
Swirling bright blues and bold yellows, a vibrant effect.
Date Painted
September 1888
June 1889
Location
Arles, France
Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, France (from his asylum room window)
Tips for viewing Starry Night Over the Rhône
Arrive during the opening hours around 9:30am or late afternoons on weekdays. Avoid weekends or free admission days when the museum is likely more crowded.
Join the guided tour
or get an audio guide to gain insights into the artwork, like Van Gogh's inspiration and techniques.
Want to save time? Head directly to the painting on the fifth floor, in the Impressionism and Post-Impressionism collection.
Allocate at least 10–15 minutes to observe the painting’s brushwork, and then step back to let the entire scene sink in.
Frequently asked questions about the Van Gogh’s Starry Night on the Rhone
Do I need a separate ticket to view Starry Night Over the Rhône at the museum?
No, Starry Night Over the Rhône is part of the permanent collection at the Orsay Museum and can be viewed with a standard admission ticket.
Where can I find Starry Night Over the Rhône within the Orsay Museum?
The painting is located in Room 36 on the fifth floor of the Orsay Museum, amidst other Post-Impressionist masterpieces.
What are the Orsay Museum's opening hours?
The museum operates from 9:30am to 6pm daily and is closed on Mondays. On Thursdays, the hours are extended until 9:45pm.
Are guided tours available for viewing Starry Night Over the Rhône?
You can book guided tours that include highlights of their collection, often featuring "Starry Night Over the Rhône." These tours provide deeper insights into the artwork and Van Gogh's life.
Is there an audio guide available for Starry Night Over the Rhône?
The museum provides audio guides that offer detailed information about key artworks, including "Starry Night Over the Rhône." These can be rented at the museum's entrance.
What other Van Gogh paintings can I see at the museum?
In addition to "Starry Night Over the Rhône," the museum houses several of Van Gogh's notable works, such as "Self-Portrait," "Bedroom in Arles," and "The Church at Auvers."
Can I purchase a reproduction of Starry Night Over the Rhône at the museum's gift shop?
Yes, the gift shop offers reproductions of many artworks, including "Starry Night Over the Rhône," in various formats such as prints and postcards.
Are there any restrictions on sketching inside the museum?
Sketching with pencils is typically allowed in the permanent collection galleries, but the use of paints or easels is prohibited.
Are there any upcoming special exhibitions featuring Van Gogh's works?
The museum frequently hosts special exhibitions. It's best to check the official website or contact the museum directly for the most current information on upcoming exhibitions.