Artwork
Halt for prisoners

Halt for prisoners is an oil painting by the Realist artist Valery Jacobi. It dates from 1861 and is held in the collection of the Tretyakov Gallery.
About this work
Overview
Halt for Prisoners is an 1861 oil-on-canvas painting by Russian Realist artist Valery Jacobi. The work captures a somber moment of rest among prisoners, characteristic of the Realist focus on unvarnished contemporary life.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a distressing scene of prisoners gathered around a cart, overseen by a figure in military uniform. The group’s evident suffering and the chaotic background crowd convey a mood of profound sadness and despair, highlighting the hardships of imprisonment.
Technique & Style
Jacobi employs chiaroscuro to create depth and contrast, directing the viewer’s attention to the central figures. This technique, alongside the overall composition, aligns with Realist principles of emphasizing reality over idealization.
History & Provenance
Created in 1861, Halt for Prisoners is part of the Tretyakov Gallery’s collection, reflecting its significance within Russian Realist art.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Valery Ivanovich Jacobi (Russian: Вале́рий Ива́нович Яко́би, romanized: Valery Ivanovich Yakobi; 15 May 1834 – 13 May 1902) was a Russian painter.










