Vincent van Gogh worked as an artist for only ten years, including six years as an apprentice. In February 1888, van Gogh moved to Arles in southern France where the rich yellows and hot reds of the Mediterranean reflected his own emotional fervor, and inspired him to paint with unparalleled passion. In the fourteen months van Gogh was in Arles, he produced over 200 paintings. His long-time friend and mentor, Paul Gauguin, called the paintings from the Arles period "completely Vincent van Gogh."

When Gauguin arrived in Arles, van Gogh insisted they paint outside as often as weather allowed. Cafe Terrace at Night is an example of what van Gogh referred to as "painting in the natural state." The rich colors and impressionistic details transform this simple French cafe into a scene of peaceful reflection and exceptional beauty.