Did Van Gogh’s ‘Starry Night’ depict real sky from July 1889? Scientists think so
Researchers from South Korea suggest that Vincent van Gogh's 'The Starry Night' may have been inspired by the night sky on July 22, 1889. This finding challenges the long-held belief that the painting was created in June 1889.
Why it matters
This study provides new scientific insights into the creative process of a historical master, potentially correcting the timeline of art history.
Scientists investigating the artistic mysteries behind Vincent van Gogh’s iconic painting The Starry Night have identified a celestial scene that could offer a new clue to when the masterpiece was created.According to a South Korean research team, the painting may have been inspired by the actual night sky visible from the French asylum where the Dutch artist was staying in 1889, rather than being entirely a product of his imagination.The team announced on Thursday that its astronomical analysis points to the early hours of July 22, 1889, as a possible date for the scene depicted in the painting.
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