Artwork

Portrait of the Saltykov Family

Portrait of the Saltykov Family, by Johann Friedrich August Tischbein, oil, 1793
Portrait of the Saltykov Family, by Johann Friedrich August Tischbein, oil, 1793

Portrait of the Saltykov Family is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Johann Friedrich August Tischbein. It dates from 1793 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.

About this work

Overview

Johann Friedrich August Tischbein's 'Portrait of the Saltykov Family' is an oil painting created in 1793, now part of the State Hermitage Museum's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts four members of the Saltykov family in a dimly lit interior. The composition includes a kneeling woman in red with a fan, a seated woman in blue with a basket, a standing woman in pale yellow leaning on a chair, and a man in a dark coat standing to the right, holding a hat. Their poses and attire suggest a portrayal of familial intimacy and status.

Technique & Style

Tischbein emphasized textiles and lighting, using chiaroscuro to achieve depth. The contrast between vibrant colors and a dark background creates a soft, glowing effect on the subjects' faces and clothing.

History & Provenance

Created in 1793, the painting is currently housed at the State Hermitage Museum, though its history between creation and acquisition is not detailed here.

Context

The work reflects late 18th-century European portraiture trends, focusing on capturing the sitters' social standing and personal relationships within a carefully composed domestic setting.

Legacy

While specific influence or notable exhibitions are not highlighted, the painting remains a representative example of Tischbein's work and late 18th-century portraiture in a major museum collection.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Johann Friedrich August Tischbein

Artist

Johann Friedrich August Tischbein

Johann Friedrich August Tischbein, known as the Leipziger Tischbein was a German portrait painter from the Tischbein family of artists.

Hermitage Museum

Museum

Hermitage Museum

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