It's a bad reproduction for one, but it is dreary. It's supposed to be! They're poor and without hope! It's totally OK to feel any way about it one likes, but it is considered a seminal work. It's just not as "happy" pretty as the poplar ones. He only painted from ages 32 -39, so cut the poor dead dude some slack, eh, Fred?
Actually, I think it is in need of restoration. I get dreary, but it just looks dull. Not particularly impressive for a seminal work.
The best part of the Gallery was a collection of self portraits done throughout his short career.
Oh, if I wanted happy Bob, I'd just go to a gallery that hangs nothing but happy faces.
