Fyodor Evstafievich Knyper, Russian General 

Editor: We're looking at a portrait of "Fyodor Evstafievich Knyper, Russian General" by George Dawe, made with oil paint and currently displayed at the Hermitage Museum. It really strikes me how the light emphasizes the texture and richness of the General's uniform. What is your perspective on the creation and materiality of this piece? Curator: The production of portraiture, especially one depicting a military leader, is never a neutral act. Consider the very means: oil paint, a medium historically tied to wealth and power. It allows for a layered, detailed rendering of Knyper's status – his opulent uniform and medals – items that signified reward and therefore value under Imperialist regimes. It makes one think of the social systems and labor practices inherent in producing these materials and ultimately, this image of authority. What about the composition? How do the choices influence your interpretation? Editor: I think the pose is rather formal and creates a sense of authority, but perhaps the artist did not try to mask the imperfections of his model... or did he, in your opinion? Curator: Indeed. Even apparent ‘imperfections’ or ‘naturalism’ serve a purpose. What appears ‘real’ is often carefully constructed. Look closely at how Dawe represents the General's flesh tones. Is there perhaps a way to perceive the use of labor implied in Dawe's execution of such delicate and demanding use of oil? The labour involved and, by extension, a specific ideology becomes materially manifest through its representation of Fyodor Evstafievich Knyper. The consumption of art then, reproduces existing social relations. It's worth considering whose consumption is privileged here and to whose benefits this artwork eventually led. Editor: That’s fascinating – the painting is an assertion of specific power and of Imperial ideology. The choice of oil, a luxurious material in itself, reinforces that even before Dawe’s technique is considered. Thank you, I will surely remember to ask these kind of questions next time I visit an exhibit! Curator: Absolutely! It’s about understanding how art both reflects and perpetuates social structures through its materiality.