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Artwork

Portrait of Lev M. Yashvil (1768-1836)

George Dawe , 1822

Portrait of Lev M. Yashvil (1768-1836), by George Dawe, oil, 1822
Portrait of Lev M. Yashvil (1768-1836), by George Dawe, oil, 1822

Portrait of Lev M. Yashvil (1768-1836) is an oil painting by George Dawe. It dates from 1822 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum. Portrait of Lev M.

About this work

Overview

Portrait of Lev M. Yashvil is an 1822 oil painting by George Dawe, depicting a prominent Russian figure of the early 19th century. The work is now part of the State Hermitage Museum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait showcases Lev Mikhailovich Yashvil, distinguished by his elaborate dark military uniform adorned with numerous medals, indicating a high rank, likely in the military or government. His serious, somewhat weary expression is conveyed through subtle, three-dimensional facial shading.

Technique & Style

Dawe employed soft shadows to achieve a three-dimensional effect on Yashvil's face, set against a plain, warm background that directs focus solely on the subject. The overall style reflects Dawe's established portrait technique, honed during his time in Saint Petersburg.

History & Provenance

Painted in 1822, the portrait was created during Dawe's productive period in Saint Petersburg, where he had relocated in 1819 and gained acclaim. It is currently housed at the State Hermitage Museum as part of its collection.

Context

As the son of a mezzotint engraver, George Dawe's transition to portrait painting in a foreign context (Saint Petersburg) highlights his adaptability and the international nature of early 19th-century artistic practices.

Artist & collection

Portrait of George Dawe

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.

Hermitage Museum

Museum

Hermitage Museum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Hermitage Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.In the collection of Hermitage Museum. Compiled & edited by , Editor & Founder.