Artwork

Donkeys and a donkey keeper

Donkeys and a donkey keeper, by Martiros Saryan, tempera, 1910
Donkeys and a donkey keeper, by Martiros Saryan, tempera, 1910

Donkeys and a donkey keeper is a tempera painting by the Post-Impressionist artist Martiros Saryan. It dates from 1910 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Armenia.

About this work

Overview

Donkeys and a donkey keeper is a 1910 tempera painting by Martiros Saryan, a key figure in modern Armenian art.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a person guiding three donkeys, capturing a moment of everyday life. The scene is characterized by simplicity and a focus on the relationship between the person and the animals.

Technique & Style

The work is executed in tempera, resulting in a flat, two-dimensional appearance. The color palette is subdued, with earthy tones such as brown and beige dominating the composition, aligning with post-impressionist tendencies.

History & Provenance

The painting is part of the National Gallery of Armenia's collection, reflecting Saryan's contribution to Armenian cultural heritage.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Martiros Saryan

Artist

Martiros Saryan

Martiros Saryan (Armenian: Մարտիրոս Սարյան; Russian: Мартиро́с Сарья́н; 28 February 1880 – 5 May 1972) was an Armenian painter, People's Artist of the USSR (1960), member of the USSR Academy of Fine Arts (1947),…