Artwork

Portrait of Emperor Nicholas I

Portrait of Emperor Nicholas I, by Wladimir Swertschkoff, oil, 1856
Portrait of Emperor Nicholas I, by Wladimir Swertschkoff, oil, 1856

Portrait of Emperor Nicholas I is an oil painting by the Realist artist Wladimir Swertschkoff. It dates from 1856 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.

About this work

Overview

The Portrait of Emperor Nicholas I is an oil painting created by Wladimir Swertschkoff in 1856, now held at the State Hermitage Museum.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts Emperor Nicholas I in a formal military uniform, emphasizing his authoritative presence through the use of a dark, blurred background that focuses attention on the subject.

Technique & Style

Soft lighting is used to convey a sense of calm seriousness on the subject's face, while the contrast between the dark background and the gold and white of the uniform creates a strong, official impression.

Artist & collection

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.