Artwork

Portrait of Pyotr M. Volkonsky (1776-1852)

Portrait of Pyotr M. Volkonsky (1776-1852), by George Dawe, oil, 1823
Portrait of Pyotr M. Volkonsky (1776-1852), by George Dawe, oil, 1823

Portrait of Pyotr M. Volkonsky (1776-1852) is an oil painting by George Dawe. It dates from 1823 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum. The Portrait of Pyotr M.

About this work

Overview

The Portrait of Pyotr M. Volkonsky is an oil-on-canvas painting created by George Dawe in 1823. It is part of the State Hermitage Museum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts Pyotr Mikhailovich Volkonsky, a Russian general who played a significant role in the Napoleonic Wars. His military uniform, adorned with medals and insignia, signifies his high rank.

Technique & Style

Dawe employed chiaroscuro to create depth and dimension in the portrait. The subject is set against a muted brown background, with his dark hair and black jacket with gold epaulets and blue sash rendered in detail.

History & Provenance

Dawe painted this work while working in Saint Petersburg, where he was commissioned to create 329 portraits of Russian generals for the Winter Palace's Military Gallery.

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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