Viktor Mikhailovich Vasnetsov (Sadko), Repin 
- Posted by Ilya Efimovich Repin
- Museum: Tretyakov Gallery
- Year: 1875
Overview of the painting :
Viktor Mikhailovich Vasnetsov – Ilya Efimovich Repin. 1875. Etude for the figure “Sadko in the underwater kingdom.”. Oil on canvas. 73 x 64 cm
This picture is an expressive image created using a combination of two techniques – volumetric painting with spectacular large strokes and a carefully written character face.
Famous Russian artist Vasnetsov V. M. depicted as the legendary former hero of Sadko. This interesting point reflects the activities of Vasnetsov himself – he became famous as the author of numerous paintings devoted to Russian tales, were and legends.
On the canvas, the character is depicted in a profile, on an uninfected, overflowing blue-yellow hue of the background. He is wearing a voluminous fur coat and a fur hat with a brocade top – a typical outfit of Russian barin. Although the clothes are screeching, their texture and volume are well read, it feels like the fur is magnificent and fluffy.
Dark tones predominate in the picture, which allows you to record the attention of the audience on the expressive face of the character. The profile of the great artist is lit from above, as if by cold moonlight or starlight. This clearly sets it apart from a blurry background. Unlike everything else, the character’s face is depicted very brightly and expressively, in all details. This inspired appearance remains in the memory of all visitors to the museum for a long time.