Portrait of the pianist, conductor and composer Anton Grigorievich Rubinstein 1881

Ilya Repin rendered this portrait of Anton Grigorievich Rubinstein in oil paint. Oil paint is interesting. You see, it’s a material that allows for the blending of color and the creation of smooth surfaces, but also for visible brushstrokes. Look closely, and you can see how Repin has used these qualities to full effect. The dark suit of Rubinstein is depicted with thick, almost sculptural strokes, reflecting the industrial production of clothing and the labor involved in tailoring. In contrast, Rubinstein’s face and hair are rendered with more delicate, blended strokes, creating a sense of depth and personality. In this work Repin engages with traditions of portraiture, but also pushes against them, creating an image that is both classical and modern. The painting suggests a commentary on the changing nature of work and the role of the artist in a rapidly industrializing world. So, considering materials, making, and context allows us to see beyond the surface of the image.