Timofey Dmitriyevich Grekov, Russian Major General 

Timofey Dmitriyevich Grekov, Russian Major General, was painted by George Dawe using oil on canvas. Dawe uses traditional artistic materials, but it's the embellishments on Grekov's uniform that I find most compelling. His epaulettes, awards and decorations are depicted with a high level of detail. Each has a clear and distinct presence. These additions speak to an entire industry of skilled artisans who worked with various materials such as gold, silver, textiles, and precious stones to create these status symbols. The artist’s labour, and that of these anonymous makers, speaks to the larger social context of military campaigns, which had an impact not only on those in power but on all social classes. The cost of these materials, the labour required to produce them, and their meaning as status symbols highlight class distinctions within society. When we consider such elements, we can appreciate the skill and effort involved in both the creation and interpretation of this artwork.