Artwork

Taking a rest

Taking a rest, by Ilya Repin, oil, 1892
Taking a rest, by Ilya Repin, oil, 1892

Taking a rest is an oil painting by the Realist artist Ilya Repin. It dates from 1892 and is held in the collection of the Tretyakov Gallery.

About this work

Overview

Taking a Rest (1892) is an oil painting by Ilya Repin, a prominent Ukrainian-born Russian realist painter. The work is a portrait of the artist's daughter, Vera Alekseyevna Repina, and is part of the collection at the Tretyakov Gallery.

Subject & Meaning

The subject of the painting is Vera Alekseyevna Repina, Repin's daughter, depicted in a state of relaxation. The portrayal focuses on her serene demeanor, with her eyes closed and head resting on her hand, conveying a sense of quiet intimacy.

Technique & Style

Composed in oil paint, the painting showcases Repin's realist approach. The dominant elements are the vibrant red armchair and the subject's long, dark red dress with white lace accents, set against a subdued gray background, highlighting Repin's ability to balance color and composition.

History & Provenance

Created in 1892, the painting is a part of Repin's body of work within the Russian realist movement. It has been held in the Tretyakov Gallery, a major repository of Russian art, reflecting the institution's emphasis on showcasing pivotal works of Russian realism.

Context

As a realist painter, Repin's work, including *Taking a Rest*, was characterized by its depiction of everyday life and contemporary subjects. This portrait, however, offers a personal glimpse into the artist's life, distinguishing it from his more publicly oriented works featuring prominent cultural figures.

Legacy

While *Taking a Rest* may not be Repin's most widely recognized work among his portraits of public figures, it contributes to the broader legacy of Russian realist painting and provides insight into the artist's personal life through his depiction of family.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Ilya Repin

Artist

Ilya Repin

Ilya Yefimovich Repin (5 August 1844 – 29 September 1930) was a Ukrainian-born Russian painter.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Tretyakov Gallery open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.