Historical paintings written based on real stories have always been interesting to Russian and Soviet artists of different levels. This legacy is comparable to the annals of all time. Realistic, complemented by some degree of fiction, colorful plots, landscapes or people - everything is possible. Historical paintings know no bounds in the diversity of their genre. The main task of the artist is to convey to connoisseurs of the art of faith in the realism of even mythical stories. After all, any fairy tale has the right to life if people want it.
The story through the eyes of Ilya Repin
Who does not know the famous Repin "Burlaks" or "Zaporizhzhya Cossacks"? No one now reliably knows whether these events really took place. But we believe Repin, because we want this.
Few people know, but the idea of the painting "Cossacks writing a letter to the Turkish Sultan" Repin hatched for many years. The first sketch was made by him in 1878, and compositionally he did not differ much from the latest version. Here there is already a clerk, and a Cossack, stretching up his hand, and some other characters. The composition is open, unlimited plan.
Next, the artist draws two large sketches with an interval of several years. The plot becomes more complete, and the composition becomes more compact. A little later, and more precisely in 1891 and 1893. two paintings on the same topic appear. The first is completely finished, and the second remains unfinished. Interestingly, the latest picture is essentially not. This is an early version, a sketch that Repin was finalizing at the request of Tretyakov.
Historical subjects in the paintings of G. Myasoedov
Historical and everyday paintings are presented in the work of Myasoedov. He discovered his love of food stories in himself at the Art Academy, where he received a gold medal and recognition of talent for his diploma work.
Many will recognize Myasoedov by the picture "Zemstvo dines." This work of art has become one of the most significant in his work. Dark in colors, but surprisingly bright in emotions, the canvas captures the soul and does not allow one to look away. The artist demonstrates the difference between the social strata: peasants who came to bow to the zemstvo are forced to humbly wait until the managing employees have lunch. Although the heroes of the picture may well be representatives of the self-government body, but, feeling uncomfortable at the same table with the nobility, they cling to the doors and do not dare to eat next to them.
Against the background of poverty and infringement of the peasant class, the waiter in the zemstvo window looks especially cynical. The historical events of the painting were discussed by many writers and artists, it was unambiguously accepted, someone tried to imitate the meat-eating style, but it was this canvas that remained a qualitative historical characteristic of the past.
Surikov and his "Boyar Morozova"
Surikov’s historical paintings are always more than just a plot artistically executed on canvas. The famous "Boyar Morozova", in contrast to the "Zemstvo" Myasoedov, demonstrates not so much the difference of estates, but the unity of ordinary people.
The main character is depicted in furs and shackles, she is taken to execution. But how much pride and rebellion in her look! What sympathy in the eyes of the common people! With all the difference in estates, now, at this moment, they are one. The noblewoman did not give up faith, which means people. Soon she will die, but no one will break her life values. Ordinary people respect her and accompany her sled.
Surikov’s historical paintings are always full of drama and unshakable faith. Bright colors add optimistic notes to works, therefore they are not perceived oppressively.
Instead of a conclusion
Historical paintings by artists never leave anyone indifferent. Every person at the genetic level has a desire to know his story. The emotionality and truthfulness of the plot lines conveyed makes you think and purify yourself internally.
Looking at historical paintings written many decades, and sometimes several hundred years ago, you can see yourself or your friends, relatives, and friends in them. Indeed, over time only fashion changes - people with their experiences, sufferings and joy remain the same. History teaches us to live without repeating the mistakes of our ancestors and believing that good lives nearby.