Catherine II (1729-96) at the Coffin of Empress Elizabeth (1709-61) 1874

Nikolai Ge painted "Catherine II at the Coffin of Empress Elizabeth" to capture a pivotal moment in Russian history. Ge, working in the late 19th century, was known for his Realist style and interest in moral and philosophical themes. Here, we witness Catherine, a German princess who rose to become one of Russia's most powerful rulers, at the funeral of Empress Elizabeth. The painting delves into the complexities of Catherine's identity – a foreigner who navigated the treacherous waters of the Russian court to seize power. Dressed in black, Catherine's presence is both somber and calculated, embodying the weight of her ambition and the precariousness of her position. Ge masterfully portrays the emotional intensity of the scene, inviting viewers to consider the personal sacrifices and political machinations that defined Catherine's ascent to the throne. This work offers a glimpse into the inner world of a woman who defied expectations and reshaped the course of Russian history, while raising essential questions about power, legitimacy, and the human cost of ambition.