Artwork
Old Woman Knitting a Sock
Old Woman Knitting a Sock is an oil painting by the Realist artist Ivan Khrutsky. It dates from 1838 and is held in the collection of the Tretyakov Gallery.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1838, *Old Woman Knitting a Sock* is an oil painting by Ivan Khrutsky, an artist of Polish‑Russian background with Belarusian roots. The work is part of the Realist tradition and is currently housed in Moscow’s Tretyakov Gallery.
Subject & Meaning
The canvas portrays an elderly woman seated in a simple chair, absorbed in the domestic task of knitting a sock. Her brown dress, white collar, and head covering emphasize modesty, while her down‑cast gaze and wrinkled features convey concentration and the quiet dignity of everyday labor.
Technique & Style
Khrutsky employs chiaroscuro, contrasting a dark, muted background with a softly illuminated figure. This lighting scheme models the woman's form, giving her a three‑dimensional presence. The brushwork is restrained, focusing attention on texture—particularly the yarn and the subtle folds of fabric.
History & Provenance
Since its completion, the painting entered the collection of the Tretyakov Gallery, where it remains on display. Its acquisition reflects the museum’s 19th‑century focus on Russian and regional realist works.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Jan Chrucki (Ivan Fomich Khrutsky, Russian: Иван Фомич Хруцкий; Belarusian: Іван Хруцкі; 1810–1885) was a Polish-Russian painter of Belarusian descent known by his still lifes and portraits.
