The artwork “Lezginka,” created by Vasily Vereshchagin between 1864 and 1867, belongs to the Realism art movement and is classified as a genre painting. This piece is an exemplary representation of everyday life and cultures of the depicted region during the mid-19th century.
In the artwork, a lively scene unfolds where a group of individuals, predominantly male, are gathered in an outdoor setting. At the center, a figure is depicted mid-dance, presumably performing the Lezginka, a traditional Caucasian dance. The surrounding individuals appear engaged, dressed in traditional clothing, and are either observing or participating in some manner. The background features rustic buildings and a rugged landscape, reinforcing the authenticity and realism typical of Vereshchagin’s work. The detailed rendering conveys a vivid sense of movement and cultural richness, capturing a moment of communal life with historical depth and artistic precision.
