London 21 April, Courthauld Gallery

While we waited for our timed entry to the Van Gogh exhibit, we enjoyed perusing their collection of Impressionists, one of the most famous and interesting being A Bar at the Folies Bergères. One has seen many prints/digital copies, but until seeing the actual painting never appreciated how sad she looks. I’d interpreted her expression as boredom, having to serve yet another punter, who’s probably trying to chat her up. I now see depression more than ennui.

Sketches and drafts, like unfinished paintings, are instructive. The Courthauld has a rough draft of Manet’s Le Déjeuner sur l’herbe (1862). The finished painting is in Paris, at the Musée d’Orsay.

The Courthauld Gallery houses many other treasures, which you can peruse virtually (Impressionists are on the third floor): https://courtauld.ac.uk/gallery/virtual-tours/

But we came for the special exhibit (which you can also tour online):

Van Gogh self-portraits

The range of styles, techniques, and psychological revelation is fascinating. A few of his self-portraits follow. But first, another artist’s impression of him:

Afterwards, we wandered over to the Inns of Court and found the Seven Stars Pub, where we enjoyed a pint. Later, near our hotel, we strolled along quiet back streets to Casa Tua for a simple meal.