Self Portrait with Bandaged Ear 1889 by Vincent van Gogh 2.5 oz Silver Coin

2.5 oz 999 Fine Silver Coin – Republique du Tchad 2024 – 10000 Francs CFA

Vincent van Gogh’s self-portrait from January 1889, notable for the bandaged ear, serves as an important documentation of the artist’s disorderly mental state. Painted during a critical period in his life while he was at the asylum in France, this painting captures both van Gogh’s physical appearance and his emotional turmoil then. The bandage, a striking feature of the portrait, is a compelling symbol of the physical and psychological struggles that plagued van Gogh’s life and artistry.

In December 1888, van Gogh severed part of his left ear after a heated argument with fellow artist Paul Gauguin. Highlighting van Gogh’s deteriorating mental health, he decided to seek refuge at an asylum in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, France. This self-portrait showcases the moment of self-examination amidst the chaos in Van Gogh’s life.

In the artwork, the background contrast draws attention to his eyes — often described as windows to his troubled soul. The determined yet vulnerable expression hints at his internal struggles. Compounded with the prominent display of the bandaged ear, these would elicit empathy from viewers to imagine the pain behind the artist’s outward persona. The thick brushstrokes and choice of colours – striking blues and yellows – reflects the emotional weight van Gogh felt at that moment and demonstrates how hues of colour theory could convey feelings.

The portrait explored the artist’s psyche during one of his most challenging periods, encapsulating themes of pain, isolation and resilience, making it a crucial section in understanding van Gogh’s life and legacy. This work continues to resonate with many today, especially as mental health awareness continues to grow, offering insights into the complexities of mental health and the human condition.

brushstrokes and choice of colours – striking blues and yellows – reflects the emotional weight van Gogh felt at that moment and demonstrates how hues of colour theory could convey feelings.

The portrait explored the artist’s psyche during one of his most challenging periods, encapsulating themes of pain, isolation and resilience, making it a crucial section in understanding van Gogh’s life and legacy. This work continues to resonate with many today, especially as mental health awareness continues to grow, offering insights into the complexities of mental health and the human condition.

On a canvas of 165 x 125mm, a new minting technique called “Tri-Metal ” was applied to give this piece its remarkable weight while keeping its proportions true to the actual painting. This is made possible by combining 750g of Zinc as a center layer and 120g of copper as a base with a top layer of 2.5 oz of 999 fine Silver, resulting in a high relief. This is a limited edition of 399 pieces only. Each piece is packaged and delivered with a Certificate verifying its edition number and authenticity.