The monastery of George. Cape Fiolent 1846

Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky made this oil on canvas painting, The Monastery of George, Cape Fiolent, sometime in the 19th century. With careful consideration of the materiality, Aivazovsky uses oil paint, patiently layering it on the canvas, taking advantage of its unique properties and the potential to create a luminous and dynamic composition. His precise application captures the rough texture of the cliffs, the movement of the water, and the soft glow of the moonlight breaking through the darkness, making the scene come alive. As well as material, this piece has great social significance. Maritime painting became increasingly popular in the 19th century with advances in shipping and a growing interest in seafaring adventures. Aivazovsky made a career capturing the spirit of sea travel, and the sublime power of nature, reflecting Russia’s emergence as a naval force. Looking at the materials and considering their social context enriches our experience and understanding of the artwork.