Who painted Portrait of Pavel I. Merlin (1769-1841/42)?

Portrait of Pavel I. Merlin (1769-1841/42) was painted by George Dawe in 1824.

Where can I see Portrait of Pavel I. Merlin (1769-1841/42)?

Portrait of Pavel I. Merlin (1769-1841/42) is held by Hermitage Museum.

Can I buy a print of Portrait of Pavel I. Merlin (1769-1841/42)?

Museum-quality prints of Portrait of Pavel I. Merlin (1769-1841/42) are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Portrait of Pavel I. Merlin (1769-1841/42)

George Dawe , 1824

Portrait of Pavel I. Merlin (1769-1841/42) is an oil painting by George Dawe. It dates from 1824 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.

About this work

Overview

This oil portrait, painted in 1824, depicts Pavel Ivanovich Merlin, a senior figure distinguished by his dark military coat, gold epaulettes and an array of medals across his chest. Set against a muted orange‑brown backdrop, the composition emphasizes the sitter’s solemn expression and the subtle modeling of his face, creating a dignified yet intimate representation.

Subject & Meaning

Merlin, whose greying curls and formal attire indicate a high rank within the Russian military or civil service, is presented with a serious demeanor that reflects the decorum expected of officials of his standing. The inclusion of his decorations serves both as a visual record of his achievements and as a symbol of loyalty to the state.

Technique & Style

George Dawe employs a restrained palette and careful chiaroscuro to render the textures of fabric and flesh. Light falls on Merlin’s face, enhancing the three‑dimensional quality of his features, while the background’s warm tones recede, allowing the figure to dominate the visual field. The brushwork balances detail in the medals with broader strokes in the coat.

History & Provenance

The portrait was created during Dawe’s productive period in Saint Petersburg, where he arrived in 1819 and quickly gained the patronage of Russian cultural elites. While best known for contributing 329 portraits of generals to the Winter Palace’s Military Gallery, this work exemplifies his broader output of civilian portraits during his decade-long Russian residency.

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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

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