Portrait of P.M. Tretyakov Ilya Repin (1844-1930)

Description of Ilya Repin’s Portrait of Tretyakov

Repin managed to create an incredibly simple yet profound portrait. We see Tretyakov, who founded the famous painting gallery. The artist has conveyed the depth and yet complexity of this man’s character. In the dark eyes of Tretyakov lurks sadness. His beard is groomed and his nose is perfectly straight. This is exactly how a true philosopher should be, pondering the meaning of life.

As the final detail for his canvas, Repin chooses an interesting moment. On the arm of a patron of the arts glitters wedding ring. It can tell a lot about a person. Repin painted this hand with incredible skill. The thin fingers are impressive.

Tretyakov’s pose is also characteristic. He tries to occupy very little space. This testifies to his modesty. He cannot exist without the paintings he has managed to collect. The work that has become the meaning of this great man’s whole life has also become a part of it.

The painting does not impress with vivid color or temperamental brushwork. The artist understands that Tretyakov was naturally restrained and modest. That’s why his personality would really be in poor harmony with the exuberant colors and expressive technique. That’s why Repin chooses a slightly dry and very restrained manner. Only in this way could he convey the essence of the character of this great man.

We see Tretyakov sitting on a soft chair. He is leaning slightly on its back.

Pavel Mikhailovich is thinking about something. He is completely focused on his thoughts. He did not seem to be aware of what was going on around him, he was so engrossed in himself. It seems to us that he is a withdrawn man. His face is still young. He has a reddish beard. Before us an organized, collected man.

Contemporaries rightly thought that Repin managed to create a truly successful portrait. They saw the external and internal similarity with Tretyakov.