Vincent and Theo Van Gogh: A Dual Biography

Jan Hulsker, a preeminent authority on the life and work of Vincent van Gogh, published this dual biography to provide a more nuanced look at the symbiotic relationship between the artist and his brother, Theo. By drawing extensively on the vast collection of correspondence between the two, Hulsker aimed to move beyond the mythology surrounding Vincent’s mental health and creative process, instead grounding his analysis in the practical and emotional support Theo provided throughout his sibling's career.

The book is widely regarded by scholars for its meticulous chronological approach and its reliance on primary source documentation. Hulsker’s design of the narrative effectively bridges the gap between the biographical facts of the brothers' lives and the historical context of the late 19th-century art world. It remains a foundational text for those seeking to understand the Van Gogh legacy not just as the story of an individual genius, but as the shared endeavor of a deeply devoted pair.