Vincent Van Gogh's (1853-1890) paintings are among the most reproduced and recognisable in the history of art. His short career as an artist produced over 800 paintings, most created in the last two years of his life. Van Gogh's intimate reflections on life and art, revealed through his letters, allow a close understanding of the artist's journey from obscurity. His vivid use of colour and expressive brushwork influenced artists and writers and inflected popular culture in the 20th century and beyond.