The General History of Art in Russia

Orest Kiprensky, 1782-1836
Portrait of Alexander Pushkin, 1827. 
Example of Romanticism 

Understanding basic art history is necessary to understand art of a certain time period.When I met with my community consultant, we began speaking arout the 9th to the 13th century. The three main centers for Russian culture were Novgorod, Kiev, and Vladimir -Suzdal area. In 862 Rurik was elected the prince of Novgorod and this is seen as the beginning point of Russian history. In 882 Oleg, Rurik's successor conquered Kiev and Kievan Rus started. Vladimir the Great then accepted Orthodox Christianity from Byzantium in 980. This resulted in religious influences in art becoming very prominent. In the 9th century, Cyril and Methodium were credited with creating the Cyrillic alphabet. Many churches built around this time were made with a pyramidal structure, following the design of the domed basilica of Hagia Sophia in Constantinople. Norgorod became a republic in 1136. The city was part of an extensive trade route that spanned all the way to London. The results of the trade route were the sharing of ideas and artistic styles.

Vladimir Borovikovsky, 1757-1825 
Portrait of Catherine II, Empress of Russia, 1794 Example of Sentimentalism  

In the late 18th century, most art had clear European influences. The main styles included Neo-Classicism, Sentimentalism, and Romanticism. Later came the Wanderers Movement. These artists aimed to be realistic in the subject of the paintings. The 1860's themes in art consisted of Realism, Populism, and National Identity. Many painters focused on history, portraits of strong figures, and genre painting with strong themes.

Dmitry Levitzky,  1735-1822
Catherine II as Legislator in the Temple of the Goddess of Justice, 1783
Example of Neo- Classicism 

Vasily Perov. "Troika". Apprentice Workmen Carrying Water. 1866.
Example from time period of Wanderers