Lake. Rus. 1900

Isaac Levitan, a Russian landscape painter of Jewish origin, created this oil painting, called ‘Lake. Rus.’, in the late 19th century. Levitan's personal background intersects with the broader social currents of his time; as a Jew in Tsarist Russia, he faced discrimination, which shaped his identity and artistic expression. ‘Lake. Rus.’ offers a vision of the Russian landscape. The vastness of the lake and sky evoke a sense of boundlessness and the promise of freedom. The painting transcends mere representation, inviting viewers to contemplate Russia's identity and soul. The serene and expansive composition reflects a yearning for peace. The emotional depth and subtle color harmonies resonate with viewers on a profound level. Levitan once said that his paintings should evoke “a sweet sadness”. ‘Lake. Rus.’ is thus an artistic creation, an exploration of personal identity and the collective soul of a nation.