Vincent van Gogh
When Gauguin arrived later in the year, this optimism would gradually fade as van Gogh and Gauguin constantly argued. When Gauguin threatened to leave, van Gogh threatened him with the razor he was to use on his own ear. His chronic mental illness and depression would dominate his remaining life and art. From 1888 to the end of his life was spent in and out of mental institutions. His energy dissipated and he experienced long bouts of inactivity that only intensified his depression.
He did paint some memorable pieces during this period including Starry Night, which was dominated by the evening swirls that filled many of his later canvases. These paintings were much more ominous and gloomy. In the few moments of respites from his depression, he would also paint brighter pictures, such as the Portrait of Dr. Gachet, who was his doctor and friend. On July 27, 1890 at the age of 37, van Gogh shot himself, and died a few days later from complications.
It is well-documented that van Gogh sold only one painting during his lifetime. Despite only painting seriously for about ten years, the magnitude of his oeuvre is astounding. He produced over 2000 works with 860 oil paintings. The paintings from the Arles period are probably the most revered and most sought-after, but any work bearing his signature is highly valued. His paintings have fetched some of the highest prices at auction with four of his painting among the 15 highest. His famous Self Portrait with Bandaged Ear was reportedly sold for over $80 million.