Artwork

Isaac Levitan

Isaac Levitan, by Valentin Serov, oil, 1897
Isaac Levitan, by Valentin Serov, oil, 1897

Isaac Levitan is an oil painting by the Impressionist artist Valentin Serov. It dates from 1897 and is held in the collection of the Tretyakov Gallery.

About this work

Overview

The painting 'Isaac Levitan' is a portrait executed in oil paint by Valentin Serov in 1897. It is part of the Tretyakov Gallery's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts Isaac Levitan, a contemporary of the artist, seated in a dark setting, wearing formal attire. His serious expression and direct gaze convey a sense of introspection. The somber mood of the painting may reflect the subject's personality or the artist's perception of him.

Technique & Style

Serov's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth, while impasto and glazing techniques add texture and richness to the painting. The style is associated with Impressionism, evident in the artist's approach to capturing light and color.

History & Provenance

The painting was created by Valentin Serov, a prominent Russian portraitist, in 1897. It is now held in the Tretyakov Gallery, a major repository of Russian art.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Valentin Serov

Artist

Valentin Serov

Valentin Alexandrovich Serov (Russian: Валентин Александрович Серов; 19 January 1865 – 5 December 1911) was a Russian painter and draughtsman during the Belle Époque, active in St.

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