Isaac Israëls. Under the spell of Van Gogh

The special bond between Israëls and Jo van Gogh-Bonger

Central to this exhibition is the close relationship between Israëls and Jo van Gogh-Bonger (1862–1925), the guardian of Van Gogh's legacy and his sister-in-law. Between 1895 and 1897, a warm friendship developed between them, which grew into a lasting bond from 1914 onwards.

‘Vincenten’: Israëls’ playful ode to Van Gogh

Between 1915 and 1920, Israëls produced at least seventeen paintings in which works by Van Gogh are recognisable in the background. He jokingly referred to these paintings as his ‘Vincenten’. They featured some of Van Gogh’s most famous works, including Sunflowers, The Bedroom and The Yellow House (The Street).

Masterpieces from museums and private collections on display together

The exhibition brings together ten of these special “Vincents” from both Dutch museums and private collections. They are presented alongside portraits that Israëls made of Van Gogh-Bonger, as well as their letters and excerpts from her diary. This creates a rich picture of their personal relationship and its influence on Israëls' work.