Created from high-quality wood, milled with simple clean lines and presented with a satin finish. Includes an off-white mount that will not discolour or fade with age. - Simple, elegant design - Premium, fine art paper with a gently textured surface - Handmade by specialist picture framers - FSC certified off-white mat / window mount - Delivered ready for hanging

"La Mousmé" portrays a young girl, referred to as a "mousmé," a term Vincent van Gogh borrowed from Pierre Loti's novel "Madame Chrysanthème" to describe a young, fashionable Japanese girl. In the painting, the girl sits against a lush background of swirling blues and greens, which almost seem to echo Van Gogh's love for Japanese art and its focus on nature.

The mousmé herself is dressed in a layered, brightly colored dress. The vibrant red bodice contrasts with the soft pastel hues of her flowing skirt. Her attire features floral patterns which are distinctly reminiscent of Japanese kimonos, further evoking the cultural influence Van Gogh admired.

Her pose is slightly turned to the left, with her delicate hands resting in her lap holding a sprig of oleander, a flower that Van Gogh frequently incorporated into his works. The girl’s dark brown hair is neatly styled, accentuating her youthful and serene demeanor. Her large, expressive eyes, filled with a mix of innocence and contemplation, are the focal point of the portrait. The hues of her skin are softly illuminated, creating a gentle contrast with the vibrant surroundings.

Context & Artistic Significance:

Current Location: "La Mousmé" is housed in the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., USA. It is a remarkable piece from Van Gogh's later period during his time in Arles, France.

Artist Background and Artistic Movements:
Vincent van Gogh, a Dutch post-impressionist painter, has been celebrated for his expressive use of color and emotive impact. "La Mousmé" was painted in 1888, a year that marked a prolific period in Van Gogh's career. During this time, he produced some of his most notable works, such as "Sunflowers" and "The Bedroom." Van Gogh was significantly influenced by Japanese ukiyo-e woodblock prints, which is evident in "La Mousmé" through its stylistic choices and thematic elements.

Van Gogh’s fascination with Japanese art was part of a wider Japonisme trend that swept through Europe in the late 19th century. This influence manifested in his work in the form of strong outlines, simplified forms, and the use of bright, pure colors, all of which can be seen in "La Mousmé." The painting's bold, flat areas of color and strong lines reflect this Japanese aesthetic, which Van Gogh adapted to fit his expressive and emotional style.

- Influence of Literature: The term “mousmé” from Pierre Loti’s novel signifies a blend of literary and cultural influences in Van Gogh’s work, showcasing his interdisciplinary inspirations.

- Symbolism: The oleander held by the girl may symbolize beauty and danger, a duality often explored in art, adding layers of meaning to her otherwise demure appearance.

- Technique: Van Gogh's characteristic impasto technique, where paint is applied thickly, is evident in the textures of the dress and the background. This technique adds a three-dimensional quality to the work, making the painting feel almost alive.

- Personal State: During his time painting "La Mousmé," Van Gogh’s mental state was tumultuous yet incredibly productive. This painting reflects a moment of calm and contemplation amidst the emotional and psychological turmoil that he often experienced.

"La Mousmé" stands as a testament to Van Gogh's ability to blend cultural influences and express profound human emotion through his unique and powerful artistic language.