Montenegrin 1876

Vasily Polenov painted this oil sketch of a Montenegrin man in 1876. Look closely, and you’ll see how the artist has built up the image with quick, loose brushstrokes. He’s clearly interested in the textures of the man’s clothing. The rough wool of his vest, the delicate embroidery on his jacket, and the weathered leather of his shoes. Notice how the artist captures the way the light hits each material, giving them a sense of depth and weight. Consider the social context here. Polenov was part of a generation of Russian artists who were interested in portraying the lives of ordinary people. By focusing on the man's clothing and accessories, Polenov draws attention to the cultural identity and the skilled traditions of craftsmanship which are on display. Ultimately, Polenov invites us to appreciate the dignity and beauty of everyday life, and the importance of craft in shaping our cultural identities.