Artwork

The foundation of St. Petersburg

The foundation of St. Petersburg, by Alexey Venetsianov, oil, 1838
The foundation of St. Petersburg, by Alexey Venetsianov, oil, 1838

The foundation of St. Petersburg is an oil painting by Alexey Venetsianov. It dates from 1838 and is held in the collection of the Tretyakov Gallery. The Foundation of St.

About this work

Overview

The Foundation of St. Petersburg is an oil painting created by Alexey Venetsianov in 1838. It is a historical scene held in the Tretyakov Gallery's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Peter the Great and another figure examining maps in front of a large rock, surrounded by foliage and onlookers. The scene conveys a sense of exploration and discovery, likely referencing the founding of St. Petersburg.

Technique & Style

Venetsianov's work is characterized by its attention to landscape and historical detail. The painting's style is consistent with his known oeuvre, which often featured everyday people and scenes.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Alexey Venetsianov

Artist

Alexey Venetsianov

Alexey Gavrilovich Venetsianov (Russian: Алексей Гаврилович Венецианов; 18 February 1780 – 16 December 1847) was a Russian painter, renowned for his paintings devoted to peasant life and ordinary people.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Tretyakov Gallery open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.