Artwork

Forester

Forester, by Ivan Kramskoi, oil, 1890
Forester, by Ivan Kramskoi, oil, 1890

Forester is an oil painting by the Realist artist Ivan Kramskoi. It dates from 1890 and is held in the collection of the Tretyakov Gallery.

About this work

Overview

Forester is an 1890 oil painting by Ivan Kramskoi, a prominent Russian Realist painter and critic. The work is a portrait of a forester, characteristic of the Peredvizhniki movement's emphasis on realistic, everyday subjects.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a bearded man in a light shirt and brown cap, set against a dark background with hints of natural elements. His direct, serious gaze engages the viewer, conveying a sense of solemnity and everyday dignity.

Technique & Style

Kramskoi employs a nuanced color palette to achieve depth and texture, contrasting warm skin tones with cool background hues. This approach is consistent with the Realist aesthetic of the Peredvizhniki movement.

History & Provenance

Created in 1890, Forester is now part of the Tretyakov Gallery's collection, reflecting its significance within Russian Realist art.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Ivan Kramskoi

Artist

Ivan Kramskoi

Ivan Nikolayevich Kramskoi (Russian: Иван Николаевич Крамской; 8 June 1837 – 5 April 1887) was a Russian Realist painter and art critic.

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