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The Yellow House

Van Gogh, Gauguin, and Nine Turbulent Weeks in Arles

Martin Gayford author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Penguin Books Ltd

Published:29th Mar '07

Should be back in stock very soon

The Yellow House cover

This book recounts the intense nine weeks Vincent van Gogh and Paul Gauguin spent together, exploring their friendship, creativity, and struggles. The Yellow House reveals their complex relationship.

In The Yellow House, the tumultuous nine weeks shared by Vincent van Gogh and Paul Gauguin in the small town of Arles are vividly brought to life. This exploration delves into the complexity of their fragile friendship, set against the backdrop of their artistic ambitions and personal struggles. As they lived together, the two renowned artists experienced a whirlwind of creativity, engaging in discussions that would shape their futures while also confronting the demons that haunted them.

The narrative captures the intensity of their relationship, marked by moments of camaraderie and conflict. As the weeks unfold, the pressure of their artistic endeavors takes a toll on Van Gogh, leading to a shocking act of self-mutilation that would forever alter their lives. Gauguin's decision to leave without saying goodbye adds another layer of tragedy to their story, highlighting the fragility of their bond and the extremes of their artistic pursuits.

The Yellow House serves not only as a historical account but also as a poignant meditation on the nature of friendship, genius, and madness. The book invites readers to witness the extraordinary events that transpired during this brief but impactful period, offering insight into the minds of two of art history's most enigmatic figures.

A drily witty, original and profoundly absorbing book * Independent *
A wonderfully perceptive, revealing and touching book * Sunday Telegraph *
A story of such fascination on so many levels . . . Martin Gayford tells it vividly, intelligently and intelligibly * Literary Review *
Gayford's fascinating depiction of the Odd Couple of art history is both moving and riveting * Daily Mail *
Gayford has reconstructed these tumultuous weeks . . . the reader lives them day by day, almost minute by minute. Delightful, utterly fascinating * Independent on Sunday *
Masterly . . . a wonderfully alert and moving portrait * Mail on Sunday *
Thoughtful and excellently unsensational . . . with clever flashbacks and pertinent historical asides * Sunday Times *
Remarkable, erudite and thoroughly readable. Gayford has managed to piece together as much as we ever might in the most convincing way possible * Scotland on Sunday *
A gripping read, and an art historical thriller * Country Life *

ISBN: 9780141016733

Dimensions: 198mm x 129mm x 23mm

Weight: 270g

384 pages