Portrait of Alexey G. Shcherbatov 1825

George Dawe painted this portrait of Alexey G. Shcherbatov in the 19th century using oil on canvas. Dawe, an English portrait artist, gained considerable recognition in Russia for his portraits of Russian generals who played significant roles in the Napoleonic Wars. This painting depicts Shcherbatov adorned in his military regalia, medals shining against the dark backdrop, symbols of power and service to the Russian Empire. Yet beyond the military accolades, what do we see? Is it the story of a man entangled in the politics of his time, of loyalty and sacrifice within a system of social hierarchy? What part of Shcherbatov’s identity is not captured by the uniform? Portraits like this offer a glimpse into the lives of individuals shaped by their historical context, while prompting questions about representation, identity, and the narratives we construct around historical figures. The painting also offers us an entry point into considering the broader implications of power, allegiance, and the human experience within particular historical and social structures.