Portret van Ivan Paskevitsj 1840 - 1855

Ferdinand Bahmann made this print of Ivan Paskevitsj, a General of the Russian Empire, sometime in the first half of the 19th century. Paskevitsj’s stern gaze and puffed chest speak to the power associated with the Russian military at the time. The image creates meaning through visual codes of social standing. Wearing his military uniform, Paskevitsj’s medals signify the success of his military campaigns. His high status within the military speaks to the political structures of 19th century Russia, a time when military personnel held great social power. Russia’s geography, with few natural barriers, meant that the country had to prioritize military strength for defense. Thus, the military was a key institution, highly valued, and able to support the political status quo. The historian’s role is to reveal the complex social context which formed the artist’s creation. We can look to archives, newspapers, and other images to understand the significance of figures such as Paskevitsj. Art is something that is contingent on social and institutional context.