The Rainbow 1873

Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky painted this image of a storm at sea, called "The Rainbow," in Russia, though the exact year is unknown. Aivazovsky, who was the principal artist of the Russian Navy, often depicted shipwrecks and sea rescues. This was an important subject at a time when sea travel was becoming more common for both work and leisure, yet still fraught with danger. Consider the cultural role played by the Tretyakov Gallery, where this hangs, in educating the public about the great historical and artistic achievements of Russia. While the dramatic scene is spectacular, note how the rainbow in the distance offers a symbol of hope. A historian might consult shipping records or other visual representations of shipwrecks from this time to better understand the image.