Artwork

Portrait of Prince Iona F. Dondukov

Portrait of Prince Iona F. Dondukov, by Fyodor Rokotov, oil, 1781
Portrait of Prince Iona F. Dondukov, by Fyodor Rokotov, oil, 1781

Portrait of Prince Iona F. Dondukov is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Fyodor Rokotov. It dates from 1781 and is held in the collection of the Tretyakov Gallery. The Portrait of Prince Iona F.

About this work

Overview

The Portrait of Prince Iona F. Dondukov is an oil painting created by Fyodor Rokotov around 1781. It is a representative work of Rokotov's mature style and is now housed in the Tretyakov Gallery.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts Prince Iona F. Dondukov, a nobleman, in a formal attire consisting of a green jacket and red vest. His neutral expression and direct gaze convey a sense of dignity and composure.

Technique & Style

Rokotov's use of chiaroscuro creates a strong contrast between light and dark, drawing attention to the subject. The dark background serves to highlight the prince's figure, exemplifying the artist's skill in using light and shadow to achieve depth.

History & Provenance

Fyodor Rokotov, born into serfdom in 1736, later became a prominent portrait painter after gaining his freedom. He was elected an Academician in 1765, reflecting his rising status in the art world.

Artist & collection

Artist

Fyodor Rokotov

Fyodor Stepanovich Rokotov (Fedor Rokotov) (Russian: Фёдор Степа́нович Ро́котов; 1736 – December 24, 1808) was a Russian painter who specialized in portraits.

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