“A Man in a Russian Old Style Costume” is a portrait painted by Mikhail Vrubel in 1886 using oil on canvas. This artwork is recognized as part of the Art Nouveau (Modern) and Symbolism movements and is currently housed at the Museum of Russian Art (Tereshchenko Museum) in Kyiv, Ukraine.
The artwork depicts a solemn man adorned in a traditional Russian costume characterized by elaborate floral patterns. The man’s intense gaze directs outward, engaging viewers with a piercing look that contrasts with the otherwise subdued and dark color palette. Vrubel employs a meticulous application of paint to create the richly detailed garment, harmonizing the intricate design with the more abstract background. The use of symbolic elements is evident in the stylized portrayal, offering a deeper insight into Russian cultural heritage while exemplifying Vrubel’s unique artistic style.
