Sagittarius 

Andrei Ryabushkin painted this study of a peasant in the late 19th century, using watercolor on paper. It's a conventional medium for portraiture, and the artist skillfully renders the man's craggy face and the textures of his fur hat and simple clothing. But the very plainness of the materials has a social significance. Ryabushkin was deeply interested in Russian folk life, and often depicted scenes of peasant life. Here, he gives us an unidealized image of a working man, likely a member of the Old Believers, judging by the distinctive cross he wears. Consider how the watercolor medium, typically associated with lightness and delicacy, is used here to convey a sense of ruggedness and resilience. The close attention to detail, especially in the face and beard, speaks to the artist’s respect for his subject. Ryabushkin elevates the everyday through his careful rendering of ordinary materials. In doing so, he asks us to reconsider what is worthy of artistic attention.