Artwork

Portrait of Alexander Kurakin

Portrait of Alexander Kurakin, by Jean-Marc Nattier, oil, 1728
Portrait of Alexander Kurakin, by Jean-Marc Nattier, oil, 1728

Portrait of Alexander Kurakin is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Jean-Marc Nattier. It dates from 1728 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.

About this work

Overview

The Portrait of Alexander Kurakin is an oil-on-canvas painting created by French artist Jean-Marc Nattier in 1728. It is a representation of Alexander Kurakin, a Russian diplomat, and is now part of the State Hermitage Museum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts Kurakin outdoors, dressed in formal attire, holding a rifle and accompanied by a white dog. His elegant clothing and dignified demeanor convey his aristocratic status.

Technique & Style

Nattier's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and volume in the painting, with strong contrasts between light and dark areas. The soft blues and greens of the background complement the subject's formal attire, exemplifying the refined style of the Rococo period.

History & Provenance

Painted in 1728 by Jean-Marc Nattier, a member of a family of artists, the Portrait of Alexander Kurakin is a product of the artist's mature period, showcasing his skill in capturing the essence of his aristocratic subjects.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jean-Marc Nattier

Artist

Jean-Marc Nattier

Jean-Marc Nattier (French pronunciation: ; 17 March 1685 – 7 November 1766) was a French painter.

Hermitage Museum

Museum

Hermitage Museum

Continue through works from the same source collection.

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