Café table with absinth
1887 Van Gogh Museum
About this artwork
This oil painting presents a still life featuring a carafe of water and a glass filled with green absinthe on a cafe table. Through the window behind them, a snowy street scene is visible with a solitary figure walking, creating a sense of quiet observation.
Did you know?
Absinthe, the potent green liqueur, was a popular yet controversial drink in 19th-century France, often associated with artistic inspiration but also with mental health issues. Van Gogh, a frequent patron of Parisian cafes, captured this contemporary still life, reflecting the bohemian culture of his time. The drink's mysterious allure, sometimes dubbed "the Green Fairy," was a significant cultural touchstone before its eventual ban in many countries.
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Café table with absinth
Vincent van Gogh, 1887
