Vincent didn’t paint this work just because he loved nature. Almond trees bloom early in spring and symbolise new life. In 1890, that new life had just entered his own family.
His nephew, Vincent Willem, had been born. Overjoyed, Vincent wrote:
‘It gives me more pleasure than I could express in words.’
He began the painting almost immediately, as a gift.
‘Almond Blossom’ became one of the family’s most treasured works, kept by Theo, Jo, and later their son. It was never sold.
And that’s why, to this day, it can still be seen at the Van Gogh Museum.
🖼️ ‘Almond Blossom’ is now on view in the exhibition ‘Vincent's Path to Fame’, until 6 September.