Rider 

Andrei Ryabushkin created this watercolor painting, "Rider," in Russia during a period when artists were exploring national identity. Ryabushkin evokes Russia's medieval past. Note the rider's clothing which seems to be inspired by historical costume, and the traditional Russian landscape. Ryabushkin was part of a movement that rejected Western artistic styles. Instead, they embraced Russian folklore, religious art, and everyday life for inspiration, distinguishing themselves from the Imperial Academy of Arts' focus on Western European artistic traditions. These artists sought to define a unique Russian aesthetic, reflecting a broader nationalist sentiment in the country. To fully understand Ryabushkin's work, we delve into Russia's cultural history, studying folklore, historical records, and the politics of the late 19th century. Art is contingent on social and institutional context, and by examining these factors, we gain a deeper appreciation.