The Zouave
1888
Van Gogh was absolutely obsessed with the clashing colors of this French Zouave soldier's uniform, writing to his brother that the red and green were 'the devil's own.' He created this vibrant portrait in Arles in 1888, capturing the dashing Lieutenant Milliet in his blue jacket and red fez. You can clearly see a sweet dedication in the top right corner to his 'dear pal' Emile Bernard, showing how Van Gogh used his art to stay connected with his artist friends. The bold outlines and bright washes give it a graphic, almost comic-book feel that was way ahead of its time.
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