Portrait of the artist's grandmother Ashkhen 1858

This portrait, painted in 1858, depicts Ashkhen, the grandmother of the famed seascape artist Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky (1817-1900). The painting showcases the artist’s talent for capturing the likeness of the sitter and conveying her personality. Ashkhen is dressed in dark clothing and a black head covering, creating a sense of formality and solemnity, while a hint of melancholy can be seen in her eyes. This work, a departure from Aivazovsky’s more famous marine subjects, offers a glimpse into the artist's personal life and his relationship with family.