Portrait of Count Sergei Grigoriyevich Stroganov 1882

Konstantin Egorovich Makovsky painted this portrait of Count Sergei Grigoriyevich Stroganov in oil on canvas, capturing the Count amidst his personal library. The trappings of wealth and nobility are palpable; from the imposing shelves lined with leather-bound books, to the confident yet weary pose of the Count himself. But this is Russia in the late 19th century, a time of immense social upheaval. How does the artwork maintain or challenge the traditional representations of power? Consider the Count's gaze. His body language communicates a quiet sense of authority. However, he appears burdened. This portrait provides a window into the lives of Russia's elite, while hinting at the historical forces that would soon transform their world. It serves as a reminder of how personal stories intersect with broader historical narratives.