Upper pond in Abramtsevo 1882

Vasily Polenov created this landscape, likely en plein air, using oil paints on a canvas or board. Looking closely, you’ll see the visible brushstrokes – a testament to the artist's direct engagement with the material. The oil paint, with its inherent viscosity and luminosity, is skillfully manipulated to capture the scene's textures, weight, colour, and form, from the foliage to the placid water. The thick application of paint creates a tactile surface, evoking the natural world’s vitality. Oil painting has a rich history, tied to specific social and economic conditions. The pigment’s workability allowed for gradual, layered application, perfect for the careful depiction of the landscape. Polenov’s technique acknowledges the tradition of landscape painting while using the inherent qualities of the oil medium to evoke a sense of place. By understanding the materials and making processes, we gain a fuller appreciation of the artwork's meaning, blurring the line between fine art and craft.