Cheremukha. Beginning 1880 Isaac Ilyich Levitan (1860-1900)

Description of Isaac Levitan’s painting "Cherry Tree"

Levitan’s landscape works are characterized by soft and flowing lines and sunny states of nature. Exactly the same features are presented to us by his early work Cherry Blossom.

The tree itself occupies the central role in the composition. It is positioned in the center, its large branches reach almost to the edges of the composition, and white blossoms flash in the light spots. The key role in the work is assigned to the tree. Other details are not given much attention.

To the left of the bird cherry - a piece of dark unsightly roof, absolutely does not attract the attention of the viewer, the right large dense green spot looks distant trees. The fence, painted under the bird cherry, merges into a single gray spot. Its separate parts are not completely drawn, there are no clear lines or borders.

Through choosing an image for his composition Levitan wanted to convey the approach of spring, the approach of joy, happiness and wonderful warm moments. In Russia bird cherry was a symbol of life and youth.

It was believed that it relieves pain and suffering and accompanies in love. In Slavic beliefs, the bird cherry is considered the May tree and a symbol of spring. Its blossoming is always accompanied by birdsong, new love, dating and a variety of health rituals.

Flowering branches of bird cherry are a traditional home decoration. Spring warming, new life and hope for all living things. By depicting the blossoming bird cherry in the center of his composition, the author referred to folk beliefs and omens. He wanted to remind of the upcoming spring, joy, fun and carefree.

To remind of the upcoming holidays, the imminent onset of summer, a fruitful harvest. The symbol of the cherry tree acts as a symbol of love of life, longing for the sun and all living things.