Landgraf Ernest Konstantin Von Gessen-Filipstal, Russian General of the Cavalry 

George Dawe painted this portrait of Landgraf Ernest Konstantin Von Gessen-Filipstal, Russian General of the Cavalry, during a period when Russia was solidifying its imperial power. Dawe, an English portraitist, gained prominence in Russia for his depictions of military figures. Here, Landgraf Ernest Konstantin is adorned with the markers of power and status. Yet, the portrait also evokes a sense of the individual behind the uniform, which gives us an intimate view of a man navigating the complexities of his identity within the rigid structures of military and aristocratic life. The numerous medals are indicative of great service, but are also suggestive of the burdens of duty and expectation that come with such a role. What does it mean to have your likeness captured as a symbol of military might? This portrait invites us to consider not only the historical context of imperial Russia, but also the personal narrative of a man caught within its machinery.