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Van Gogh's Ear: The True Story of a Masterpiece

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Published in Van Gogh S Ear Bernadette Murphy

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By Bernadette Murphy

In December 1888, Vincent van Gogh famously cut off his own ear. The incident has been the subject of much speculation and debate, but the true story behind it has remained elusive. In her new book, Van Gogh's Ear, Bernadette Murphy uncovers the fascinating truth about what happened that night in Arles, France.

Van Gogh's Ear

by Bernadette Murphy

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	16004 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	337 pages

Murphy draws on a wealth of new research, including previously unpublished letters and interviews, to piece together a compelling narrative of van Gogh's life and work in the months leading up to the ear-cutting incident. She reveals the intense emotional and psychological torment that the artist was experiencing at the time, as well as the role that his brother, Theo, played in his life.

Murphy also provides a detailed account of the night of the ear-cutting itself, based on eyewitness accounts and police reports. She argues that van Gogh did not cut off his entire ear, but rather only a portion of it. She also offers a new explanation for why he did it, suggesting that it was a desperate attempt to escape from the mental anguish that was consuming him.

Van Gogh's Ear is a gripping and insightful look at one of the most famous and misunderstood incidents in art history. Murphy's meticulous research and clear writing style make this book essential reading for anyone interested in van Gogh, his work, or the history of art.

Praise for Van Gogh's Ear

"A fascinating and meticulously researched account of one of the most iconic works of art in history." —The New York Times

"Murphy's book is a must-read for anyone interested in van Gogh, his work, or the history of art." —The Guardian

"A gripping and insightful look at one of the most famous and misunderstood incidents in art history." —The Wall Street Journal

About the Author

Bernadette Murphy is an art historian and author. She is the author of several books on van Gogh, including Vincent van Gogh: A Biography and Van Gogh's Letters. She has also curated several exhibitions of van Gogh's work, including the major retrospective at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.

Van Gogh's Ear Van Gogh S Ear Bernadette Murphy