Artwork

Portrait of Mikhail S. Vistitsky (1768-1832)

Portrait of Mikhail S. Vistitsky (1768-1832), by Unknown, oil, 1822
Portrait of Mikhail S. Vistitsky (1768-1832), by Unknown, oil, 1822

Portrait of Mikhail S. Vistitsky (1768-1832) is an oil painting by the Realist artist Unknown. It dates from 1822 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.

About this work

Overview

The oil portrait depicts a man in an elaborate military uniform, featuring a black jacket trimmed with gold lace and adorned with multiple medals across the chest. He is set against a deep red background that accentuates his facial features. His expression is solemn, and a dark collar frames a star-shaped insignia on his lapel, indicating a high rank.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter is presented as a senior officer, likely a marshal or equivalent, as suggested by the ornate decorations and the presence of a star pin. The composition emphasizes authority and status, using the contrast of dark tones and gold embellishments to convey the individual's prominence within the military hierarchy.

Technique & Style

Executed in oil, the work employs a limited palette of black, gold, and red, creating a restrained yet striking visual effect. Fine brushwork renders the intricate lace and medal details, while broader strokes define the background, allowing the figure’s face to emerge with clarity. The overall style reflects the formal portrait conventions of the late 18th to early 19th century.

History & Provenance

The portrait is identified as that of Mikhail S. Vistitsky (1768‑1832), a figure known from historical records. While specific acquisition details are not provided, the painting is catalogued as an oil work, suggesting it has been preserved within a collection that documents Russian military portraiture of the period.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

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.