The artwork “Moonlight,” painted by Ilya Repin in 1896, is a portrait rendered in oil on canvas that reflects the Realism art movement. This piece is currently held in a private collection. The genre of the piece, portrait, is indicative of the artist’s focus on capturing the human subject in a realistic manner.
The artwork itself features a solitary figure standing by the edge of a body of water, bathed in the silver glow of moonlight. The person is depicted from behind, gazing out towards the water, which sparkles under the subtle luminance of the celestial orb. Repin’s brushwork is characterized by a nuanced interplay of light and shadow, illuminating the figure’s white garment and hinting at a contemplative or tranquil mood. The atmosphere is serene, with the silence of the night scene being almost palpable.
In the background, the dark silhouette of distant trees can be discerned against a muted sky, suggesting a natural, possibly secluded setting. The rendering of light on water is particularly striking, with passages of paint capturing the gentle ebb and flow of the water’s surface. Overall, “Moonlight” serves as a testament to Repin’s mastery of capturing the essence of a moment and the profundity of simple, quiet scenes through his realist approach.
