Portrait of painter Nikolay V. Sklifosovsky 1919

This is Zygmunt Waliszewski's "Portrait of painter Nikolay V. Sklifosovsky". Waliszewski, born in 1897, lived through a tumultuous period marked by world wars and shifting national boundaries which fostered a spirit of artistic experimentation. In this portrait, the sitter is presented informally, his gaze averted, perhaps capturing a moment of contemplation. Waliszewski uses a monochromatic palette with fluid brushstrokes to create an intimate and immediate impression. It is a depiction of a man within a community of artists in a rapidly changing world. Waliszewski's experiences undoubtedly shaped his artistic vision, reflecting a sense of introspection and a departure from traditional portraiture. The way he captured Sklifosovsky hints at the complexity of identity within artistic circles, offering us a glimpse into the personal and emotional landscape of these individuals. Waliszewski doesn't just paint a portrait; he shares a moment of quiet observation.