Van Gogh’s Suicide (Or Was It?)

​Vincent van Gogh’s death in 1890 has long been attributed to suicide. However, recent discussions have brought alternative theories to light, questioning the traditional narrative.​

The Traditional Account: Suicide

On July 27, 1890, van Gogh reportedly shot himself in the chest in a wheat field near Auvers-sur-Oise, France. He managed to return to the Auberge Ravoux, where he succumbed to his injuries two days later. This account is supported by testimonies from those close to him, including his brother Theo and Dr. Paul Gachet. Van Gogh’s documented struggles with mental health lend credence to the suicide theory

Alternative Theories: Accidental Shooting or Homicide

In 2011, biographers Steven Naifeh and Gregory White Smith proposed that van Gogh might have been shot accidentally by René Secrétan, a 16-year-old who often harassed the artist. They suggest van Gogh claimed responsibility to protect the boy. Forensic expert Dr. Vincent Di Maio noted the absence of powder burns and the angle of the wound as inconsistent with a self-inflicted shot.

Ongoing Debate

While the suicide theory remains widely accepted, these alternative perspectives invite further examination of the circumstances surrounding van Gogh’s death. The debate underscores the complexity of historical narratives and the importance of continual inquiry.