Fan 1881

"Fan" is an 1881 painting by Russian artist Fyodor Bronnikov. It portrays an artist, likely Bronnikov himself, standing in his studio with his back to the viewer. The artist is gazing at an easel with a painting of a nude woman, a common subject for academic art during this period. The artist is wearing a black coat and a dark hat. He is holding a fan in his hand, suggesting the artist is making adjustments to the painting. The scene is rich in details of an artist's studio. The painting reflects the Realism style of the time. It can be argued that Bronnikov is presenting a commentary on the artistic process and the role of the artist in society.