20 Februari-7 June 2026

Exhibition Captivated by Van Gogh

Location De Mesdag Collectie, The Hague

Paintings and letters from Isaac Israëls to Jo van Gogh-Bonger

Artist Isaac Israëls (1865–1934) often painted iconic works by Vincent van Gogh in the background of his paintings. Vincent’s sister-in-law, Jo van Gogh-Bonger (1862-1925), lent him these works. This exhibition focuses on the special bond between Isaac and Jo, based on his paintings and the letters he sent her.

Image: Isaac Israëls, Woman Standing in Front of Van Gogh’s Sunflowers (1915-1920). Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam (Vincent van Gogh Foundation).

Isaac Israëls‘ letters to Jo van Gogh-Bonger have been published in an online edition. The letters are easily searchable. The edition shows works of art and photographs mentioned in the letters. The edition was published by Hans Luijten in collaboration with the Huygens Institute and the Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam.

Israëls writes candidly and vividly about art, music, love and friendship. He expresses tender feelings for Jo van Gogh-Bonger and great admiration for Vincent’s work.

Previously, the Huygens Institute, in collaboration with the Van Gogh Museum, produced the digital edition of Vincent van Gogh’s correspondence.