The Good Samaritan (after Delacroix)

Following another serious breakdown, Van Gogh copies an engraving of The Good Samaritan by Delacroix. Copying does not mean that he slavishly imitates the revered master. He works from a black and white reproduction of the work and makes his own translation in colour and on canvas, based on his memories of the painting. Interpretation Delacroix is Van Gogh’s spiritual mentor in colour, which is apparent in the contrasts of blue/violet-yellow and red-green.