The Drinkers (or Les Buveurs) by Vincent van Gogh is a poignant painting that reflects Van Gogh's fascination with the struggles and realities of life. Painted in 1890 during his stay at the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole asylum in Saint-Rémy-de- Provence, it was inspired by a print by Honoré Daumier, a French artist known for his satirical works.
The painting depicts four men of different ages gathered around a table, drinking from mugs. In Van Gogh's version, the figures are rendered in his characteristic expressive brushstrokes and bold, contrasting colors. The scene symbolizes the cycle of life and the escapism often sought through alcohol. The youngest figure represents childhood, followed by adolescence, adulthood, and old age.
Van Gogh’s use of color—particularly the vibrant greens and blues—heightens the mood of the scene. While the subject might seem lighthearted at first glance, it carries undertones of melancholy, reflecting Van Gogh's own struggles with mental health and the harsh realities of his time.
This painting was created during a period when Van Gogh frequently reinterpreted the works of other artists, using them as a source of solace and practice while in the asylum. He admired Daumier's ability to portray ordinary people and their hardships. The Drinkers echoes this theme, showing Van Gogh's empathy for the common man and his interest in exploring themes of human existence and vulnerability.
The painting not only showcases Van Gogh’s evolving style but also serves as a personal commentary on the human condition, making it a meaningful piece in his oeuvre.