Coal Barges (1888)

On this website, we have covered many of the most famous and extraordinary paintings of Vincent Van Gogh. However, Van Gogh’s body of work is extensive and contains numerous extraordinary paintings which show off the skills of this master. Among the less known masterworks are paintings like Coal Barges from 1888. Painted while Van Gogh resided in Arles, it depicts the loading of Coal Barges on the bank of the river in the early morning.

The coloring in the painting is amazing. The way the green and yellow colors mixed with red spread across the sky as the sun rises, and how this light is reflected in the water, makes for a breath taking display. It creates a harmonious whole that boils of optimism and hope, as a new day begins with the firework of nature. It may not be among the most famous Van Gogh paintings, but it is definitely among our favorites!