*** About Portrait of Patience Escalier: This notable piece was painted by Vincent van Gogh in August 1888, during one of the most prolific periods of his career while he was living in Arles, in the South of France. The subject, Patience Escalier, was a gardener and a shepherd originally from Provence, embodying the rustic life that Van Gogh idolized and sought to capture in his work. This portrait is part of a series where the artist focused on the character and lifestyle of local peasants, emphasizing their dignity and the symbolic connection to the timeless cycles of nature and work. The painting is a vivid exploration of identity and place, resonating with viewers for its deep humanity and striking aesthetics. Today, the original painting resides in the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena, California, where it continues to draw admiration for its historical significance and poignant depiction of human endurance.