Adolphe Joseph Thomas Monticelli (October 14, 1824 – June 29, 1886)

Fishermen Lifting the Nets before the Storm, Coastal Scene

c.1878 

"I think of Monticelli terribly often here. He was a strong man–a little cracked or rather very much so–dreaming of the sun and of love and gaiety, but always harassed by poverty–of an extremely refined taste as a colourist, a thoroughbred man of a rare race, continuing the best traditions of the past. He died at Marseilles in rather sad circumstances, and probably after passing through a regular Gethsemane. Now listen, for myself I am sure that I am continuing his work here, as if I were his son or his brother."

- Vincent van Gogh

Reverred by van Gogh, adored by the likes of Cézanne, today Monticelli is not only mostly forgotten, but quite often disliked when remembered. For me, his paintings are clearly fantastic combinations of classical themes and a completely novel style. Where does all the dislike arise from?

The Hay Card

c.1882

Sunrise

c.1882-1884

Various Flowers 

Visit to a Princess

c.1860

The Adoration of the Magi

c.1873-1877