What you are looking at
A couple walks along the bank of the Rhône at night in Arles. Gas lamps on the far shore throw gold reflections across the dark blue water under the stars of the Big Dipper.
Why it is famous
Van Gogh painted it in September 1888, months before The Starry Night, as part of his effort to paint the night sky. It was shown in Paris at the Salon des Indépendants in 1889.
How big is Starry Night Over the Rhône?
Starry Night Over the Rhône measures 72 × 92.1 cm (28.3 × 36.3 in), without its frame. Its surface is about one and a half times the area of the Mona Lisa.
Compare it with other paintings
Where to see it
It is at the Musée d'Orsay in Paris, on the Post-Impressionist gallery floor.
Museums move and lend paintings. Check the museum's website before you travel to see one work. See all famous paintings in Paris.
More by Vincent van Gogh
SunflowersVincent van Gogh, 1888 LondonAll Vincent van Gogh paintings
Also at the Musée d'Orsay
Frequently asked questions
Who painted Starry Night Over the Rhône?
Vincent van Gogh painted Starry Night Over the Rhône in 1888.
Where is the Starry Night Over the Rhône?
Starry Night Over the Rhône is in the Musée d'Orsay, Paris, France.
How big is Starry Night Over the Rhône?
72 × 92.1 cm (28.3 × 36.3 in). Its surface is about one and a half times the area of the Mona Lisa.
What is Starry Night Over the Rhône made with?
Oil on canvas.
Sources: Wikidata Q1464531; Wikipedia, "Starry Night Over the Rhône". Checked October 17, 2026. How we check.