Written in the years 1887 to 1889, these letters are among the most important and relevant sources of insight into van Gogh's life and art. Fellow-artist Bernard determined to publish van Gogh's letters because "after reading them one could not doubt his sincerity, his character, nor his originality; there, pulsating with life, one would find the whole of him." Indeed, these 23 letters radiate with their author's impulsiveness, intensity, and mysticism. Complemented by reproductions of some of van Gogh's major paintings, this volume is essential reading for scholars and students of art and will be treasured by artists and art lovers alike. Chronology. Select Bibliography. Index. 32 full-page black-and-white illustrations.