Artwork

Winter

Winter, by Boris Zabirokhin, 1998
Winter, by Boris Zabirokhin, 1998

Winter is a print by Boris Zabirokhin. It dates from 1998 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

This print shows a winter scene from a Russian village. The artist, Boris Zabirokhin, often drew these places with care and a story in mind.

Zabirokhin started making these images in 1982. He grew up visiting one of these villages with his grandmother. He wanted to show the hard life there and the strength of the people.

Look up the Victoria and Albert Museum to see more of his work.

Overview

Winter is a print by Boris Zabirokhin, created as part of a series of four depicting the Seasons. The work showcases the artist's ability to weave together individual scenes to form a cohesive narrative.

Subject & Meaning

The print portrays a winter scene in a Russian village, conveying the hardships faced by its inhabitants while incorporating elements of religious iconography and natural imagery, such as birds and trees, to evoke a sense of romantic lyricism.

History & Provenance

Zabirokhin began working on the Seasons series in 1982, drawing inspiration from his childhood visits to rural villages with his grandmother. The artist's experiences and sympathies for the villagers informed his depiction of their struggles and resilience.

Technique & Style

The print is characterized by a strong illustrative and narrative style, reflecting Zabirokhin's inclination towards storytelling through his art. The work's composition and imagery are reminiscent of Russian folklore and literature.

Artist & collection

Artist

Boris Zabirokhin

Russian printmaker Boris Zabirokhin captured seasons in stark, graphic style—his Winter (ca.