The artwork “Ivan the Terrible and His Son Ivan on November 16, 1581” is a profound example of Realism, a movement that seeks to represent subjects as they actually appear. Created by Ilya Repin between 1883 and 1885, this oil on canvas measures 199.5 by 254 centimeters. This history painting is housed in the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow, Russia. The genre reflects upon and portrays significant historical events, in this case, one that took place in the Russian Federation.
The artwork is striking and emotionally charged, depicting a moment of extreme anguish and horror. At the center of the composition, Tsar Ivan the Terrible is seen holding his son, the Tsarevich Ivan Ivanovich, whom he has just mortally wounded in a fit of rage. The tsar’s face is contorted in a grimace of realization and despair, his eyes wide and haunted as he gazes upon his dying son. The severity of the action is underscored by the blood that stains the tsarevich’s head and clothes, and pools on the opulent carpet below them.
The surrounding setting is dimly lit and richly decorated, indicative of a royal chamber, with elements like a luxurious throne and patterned walls adding to the regal atmosphere. The use of dramatic lighting emphasizes the central figures, particularly highlighting their expressions and the tension of the scene. Repin’s mastery of realistic representation is evident through the intricate details of the figures’ facial features, garments, and the interior decorations, all of which contribute to the weightiness of this tragic historical moment captured on canvas.
