Vincent van Gogh's "Sunflowers"

Vincent van Gogh's "Sunflowers" is one of the most iconic paintings of the 19th century. The vividly painted sunflowers with their bold yellow hues and powerful brushstrokes leave a strong impression on the viewer.

Van Gogh saw sunflowers as a symbol of "gratitude" and "friendship." It is said that he painted the sunflowers as a welcome gesture when he invited Paul Gauguin, with whom he planned to live in Arles, southern France, to his home.

Sunflowers were a special flower for Van Gogh. The bright yellow petals evoked the sun and symbolized hope and vitality. The fact that sunflowers always bloom towards the sun is also said to represent Van Gogh's own earnest way of life.

"Sunflowers" is painted with Van Gogh's unique sense of color and brushstrokes. Warm colors such as yellow, orange, and brown are used extensively, making the entire screen bright and full of vitality. The brushstrokes are also powerful, expressing the strength and vitality of the sunflowers.

A total of seven "Sunflower" paintings by Van Gogh have been identified. Six of them still exist and are housed in museums around the world. In Japan, one of them is on display at the SOMPO Museum in Shinjuku, Tokyo.