Early Spring 1870

Konstantin Alexeevich Korovin painted “Early Spring” in Russia, using oil on canvas. Korovin uses the loose and fluid qualities of oil paint to capture the essence of the Russian countryside. Look closely and you'll see how his brushstrokes, thick with pigment, create a textured surface that mimics the rough bark of trees, the dense thatch roofs of the farm buildings, and the soft earth of the path leading to the log cabin. This painterly approach, using visible marks, adds to the overall feeling of immediacy and authenticity, reminiscent of Impressionist techniques. In Russia, during this time, there was a burgeoning interest in depicting the lives of ordinary people, reflecting the societal shifts and a growing awareness of the working class. Korovin's choice of subject matter and his approach to painting connects to larger conversations about Russian identity, the value of manual labor, and the role of art in reflecting social realities. The emphasis on materials and making invites us to see beyond the picturesque scene and consider the broader social and cultural context in which this artwork was created.