Study links Van Gogh's low self-esteem to his sparse use of signatures
A new systematic analysis shows Vincent Van Gogh signed only about 15% of his 840 known paintings, a habit tied to his mental health and self-criticism.
The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam released the first comprehensive survey of the Dutch painter’s signatures, discovering that only 133 of his 840 catalogued paintings bear the name "Vincent." The research, led by Julia Engelmayer, connects the irregular signing pattern to Van Gogh’s fluctuating self-esteem and psychological state. Early in his career, especially while in the Netherlands, he rarely signed, viewing many works as studies.
After moving to Paris, the desire to sell and exhibit led to more frequent signatures, a trend that continued in Arles but collapsed when his mental health worsened, culminating in his stay at a psychiatric hospital in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. He signed very few pieces in his final weeks at Auvers-sur-Oise, despite a prolific output. The analysis also highlights occasional signed gifts and stylistic uses of the signature, typically rendered in red.
Why it matters
Understanding Van Gogh's signing habits aids authentication of his works and sheds light on how mental health influences artistic output.
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