*** About the Head of an Old Woman with White Cap: The Midwife: Van Gogh painted this compelling image in 1885 during his early years, when his works were heavily influenced by the Dutch tradition of somber tonalities and social realism. The painting reflects Van Gogh's deepening interest in realism and the human condition, a focus that marks much of his early artistic phase before his transition to the vivid colors of his later, more famous works. This portrait is believed to have been inspired by his encounters with peasants and working-class individuals, whom he felt embodied the essence of endurance and dignity. "The Midwife", as the title suggests, could have been a local woman known to Van Gogh, representing both her profession's significance and her personal story. The artwork is currently part of a private collection, occasionally loaned to museums for public exhibition.