Artwork

Sergey Botkin

Sergey Botkin, by Ivan Kramskoi, oil, 1891
Sergey Botkin, by Ivan Kramskoi, oil, 1891

Sergey Botkin is an oil painting by the Realist artist Ivan Kramskoi. It dates from 1891 and is held in the collection of the Tretyakov Gallery.

About this work

Overview

Ivan Kramskoi's 1891 portrait, Sergey Botkin, is a representative work of the artist's Realist style, characterized by its emphasis on direct observation and psychological depth.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts Sergey Botkin seated in a chair, dressed in formal attire, conveying a sense of professionalism. His posture and facial expression, rendered with attention to detail, suggest a thoughtful and introspective individual.

Technique & Style

Kramskoi's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and dimensionality in the image, while his attention to detail in Botkin's attire and facial features underscores his commitment to realistic representation.

History & Provenance

The painting is now held in the Tretyakov Gallery, a testament to its significance within the Russian art historical canon.

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.