Van Gogh's hospital painting comes to London, returning for the first time in a hundred years

Vincent Van Gogh's painting, 'The Ward in the Hospital at Arles,' now displayed at London's Courtauld Gallery, reveals his intimate experiences in the hospital following his infamous ear mutilation. This piece represents the only depiction of the hospital's interior by Van Gogh. After passing through various owners, it now features in the exhibition of masterpieces from the Oskar Reinhart Collection. The exhibition also includes 'Courtyard of the Hospital at Arles,' showcasing Van Gogh's artistic response to his mental health challenges during his hospitalization, where he also noted the lessons learned from the sick.

Vincent wrote to his brother Theo: "I can assure you that a few days in the hospital were very interesting, and that one perhaps learns how to live from the sick."

After a prolonged stay in the Arles hospital, Van Gogh produced several notable works, including 'Self-portrait with bandaged Ear' and 'Portrait of Dr Félix Rey'.

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