The artist reacted to the news of the betrothal of his brother.
Biographer Martin Bailey has put forward a new version of why the artist Vincent van Gogh cut off his ear.
Bailey found evidence that the artist has cut himself off ear immediately after found out about the engagement of his brother Theo: “Vincent was afraid he may “lose” Theo. He was afraid that brother will no longer be able to provide him with financial assistance. All this was threatened by the unexpected appearance of the bride.”
Bailey’s theory is based on the fact that the letter from his brother, van Gogh received on the same day, when he cut off his ear. The letter was lost and no evidence of what was written in it, has not survived, but the scientist has collected enough data to suggest that Theo had told Vincent about their intention to marry.
The researcher also emphasized that van Gogh mentioned that he had received from his brother the money, December 23, that is the day when he cut off his ear.
