Why Did Vincent van Gogh's Brother Not Sell His Paintings?

Van Gogh’s brother Theo played a pivotal role in supporting Vincent's artistic career and personal life. However, Theo struggled to sell Van Gogh's paintings during his lifetime due to several factors, including the unconventional nature of his brother's work, financial constraints, and personal commitment. This article explores the reasons behind Theo's difficulty in selling Van Gogh's paintings and examines the aftermath of Vincent's death.

Limited Market Appeal

Theo was an established art dealer, but the art market in the late 19th century favored different styles, particularly Impressionism. Van Gogh's Post-Impressionist works were rather unconventional and did not resonate well with most collectors of that era. This limited market appeal made it challenging for Theo to sell Van Gogh's paintings without diminishing public interest.

Financial Constraints

Even though Theo worked as an art dealer, he struggled to make ends meet. His finances were often strained, and he had to support not only himself but also his brother Vincent. Promoting and selling Vincent's artwork took a back seat to ensuring the financial stability of his own life and the well-being of his brother, who had a variety of mental health challenges.

Personal Commitment

Theo was deeply committed to supporting his brother Vincent both emotionally and professionally. His primary focus was on promoting Vincent's talent and ensuring his overall well-being. This commitment meant that Theo often deferred to Vincent's artistic decisions and personal life, rather than prioritizing financial gain.

Vincent's Mental Health

Vincent van Gogh suffered from several mental health issues, which affected his ability to produce art consistently. This inconsistency in the timing and quantity of his work made it difficult for Theo to track and promote specific pieces, further complicating the sales process.

After Vincent's Death

Despite Theo's dedication, it wasn't until after Vincent's untimely death in 1890 that Van Gogh's art began to gain significant recognition and value. Theo, having passed away only six months later, left his widow Johanna with a large collection of Vincent's works that were often stored rolled up for decades.

Damage to Paintings

The storage conditions of Van Gogh's paintings over the decades resulted in significant damage. The paint, often thickly applied in what is known as impasto, became impacted due to the weight of the rolled-up canvas. This led to the high points of the paint being flattened with a distinct impression of the canvas texture. The term "impacted impasto" at the Van Gogh Museum aptly describes this phenomenon.

Conclusion

Theo's struggle to sell Vincent van Gogh's paintings during his lifetime was a result of a combination of market limitations, financial strains, personal commitment, and mental health challenges. However, it was only after the artist's death that his unique and groundbreaking style began to be appreciated, leading to the immense value of his works today.