1853
As a child, Vincent was described as serious and thoughtful. After leaving school, Vincent worked for an art dealer in The Hague, and later, for an art dealer in London.

Childhood
Vincent's relationship with his parents was complex and at times strained. His father was a stern and religious man, while Vincent was more sensitive and artistic. Despite their differences, Vincent had a strong emotional bond with his mother, who shared his love of nature and art.

1879
At the age of 26, Vincent studied at the Académie Royale des Beaux-Arts in Brussels, Belgium, for a few months before leaving and returning to his parents' home in the Netherlands. Vincent continued to study art on his own and began creating his own style of painting.