Who painted Portrait of Yakov P. Kulnev (1763-1812)?

Portrait of Yakov P. Kulnev (1763-1812) was painted by Unknown in 1822.

Where can I see Portrait of Yakov P. Kulnev (1763-1812)?

Portrait of Yakov P. Kulnev (1763-1812) is held by Hermitage Museum.

Artwork

Portrait of Yakov P. Kulnev (1763-1812)

Portrait of Yakov P. Kulnev (1763-1812) is an oil painting by Unknown. It dates from 1822 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.

About this work

Overview

The work is an oil portrait depicting a male figure in a military uniform, complete with medals and a red sash, set against an unadorned backdrop. The sitter’s dark, curly hair and prominent mustache frame a serious expression, and his gaze is turned slightly to the right, giving the composition a restrained, formal tone.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait represents Yakov P. Kulnev (1763‑1812), a Russian officer whose rank is indicated by the decorations and the elaborate dress uniform. The inclusion of medals and the red sash underscores his service and status, while the sober demeanor conveys the decorum expected of a military gentleman of his era.

Technique & Style

Executed in oil, the painting employs chiaroscuro to model the figure’s features, creating a three‑dimensional presence against the flat background. Fine brushwork renders the texture of the uniform and the intricate details of the medals, demonstrating the artist’s meticulous approach to rendering materiality and facial likeness.

History & Provenance

The portrait is identified as a likeness of Kulnev, who died in 1812. No further information on the artist, date of execution, or subsequent ownership is provided in the available data, leaving the work’s provenance largely undocumented.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

Museum

Hermitage Museum

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