Portrait of E.Gilechenko 

Konstantin Makovsky captured this portrait of E. Gilechenko using oil on canvas, a pairing that speaks volumes about artistic traditions. The way Makovsky applies the paint is particularly revealing. Thick, visible brushstrokes give the painting a textured surface, adding depth and character to Gilechenko’s face and fur hat. This technique not only showcases the artist's skill but also highlights the materiality of the oil paint itself, its viscosity and luminosity. Consider how this approach contrasts with the slick, anonymous surfaces often associated with mass-produced images. Makovsky’s emphasis on the handmade, the tactile, imbues the portrait with a sense of authenticity. It’s a reminder of the labor and skill involved in creating art, pushing back against the notion that artistic value lies solely in concept or subject matter. By focusing on the material qualities and the process of painting, we can appreciate how Makovsky elevates the status of both the artwork and the sitter, complicating any easy separation of art and craft.