Artwork

Portrait of Fieldmarshal Mikhail B. Barclay de Tolly (1761-1818)

Portrait of Fieldmarshal Mikhail B. Barclay de Tolly (1761-1818) is an oil painting by George Dawe. It dates from 1829 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.

About this work

Overview

This oil painting, created in 1829 by English portraitist George Dawe, portrays Fieldmarshal Mikhail B. Barclay de Tolly, a prominent Russian military leader during Napoleon’s invasion of Russia. The work is part of the State Hermitage Museum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, Fieldmarshal Barclay de Tolly, is depicted in a formal military uniform, conveying his rank and authority. His serious expression and direct gaze engage the viewer, emphasizing his character and status.

Technique & Style

Dawe employed chiaroscuro to achieve depth and volume, focusing attention on the subject. The contrast between the detailed, illuminated figure and the hazy, subdued landscape background exemplifies this technique.

History & Provenance

Painted in 1829, the portrait was created during Dawe's period of recognition in Saint Petersburg, where he had relocated in 1819. It has been part of the State Hermitage Museum's collection.

Artist & collection

Artist

George Dawe

George Dawe (6 February 1781 – 15 October 1829) was an English portraitist who painted 329 portraits of Russian generals active during Napoleon's invasion of Russia for the Military Gallery of the Winter Palace.

Museum

Hermitage Museum

Continue through works from the same source collection.