Portrait of the Artist Nikolay Gay (1880) by Ilya Repin

Portrait of the Artist Nikolay Gay - Ilya Repin - 1880

Artwork Information

TitlePortrait of the Artist Nikolay Gay
ArtistIlya Repin
Date1880
Mediumoil,canvas
Art MovementRealism
Current LocationTretyakov Gallery, Moscow, Russia

About Portrait of the Artist Nikolay Gay

The artwork titled “Portrait of the Artist Nikolay Gay” is an oil on canvas painting by Ilya Repin, completed in 1880. Representative of the Realism art movement, this portrait belongs to the genre of portraiture and currently resides in the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow, Russia. It exemplifies Repin’s skill in capturing the essence of his subjects and reflects the aesthetic principles of Realism, which sought to portray subjects with truth and accuracy.

The subject of the artwork, Nikolay Gay, is presented as the focal point against a dark and minimally detailed background, directing the viewer’s attention solely to the figure. Gay’s face emanates a thoughtful or contemplative expression with his gaze appearing to look slightly away from the viewer, giving a life-like presence to the portrait. His full beard and hair are rendered with a range of tones that suggest depth and volume, while the subtle play of light on his face highlights the contours and adds realism to the painting. The artist’s deft brushwork captures not only the physical likeness but also a sense of the individual’s character and mood. The warm, earthy palette and the nuanced interplay between light and shadow underscore Repin’s mastery in portraiture and contribute to the dignified atmosphere of the painting.

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