Portrait of art critic Lydia Durnovo 1958

This is Martiros Sarian's portrait of the art critic Lydia Durnovo, painted in 1952. Sarian, an Armenian artist, lived through tumultuous times, including the Armenian genocide and the Russian Revolution, events that deeply marked his artistic vision and sense of identity. Here, Durnovo is captured with a direct gaze, holding what seems to be a notebook, perhaps filled with her critical observations. Her attire – a dark suit and a simple blouse – defies traditional representations of women in art, suggesting a focus on her intellectual persona rather than conventional feminine ideals. It speaks to a period where women were carving out spaces in professional fields, challenging gendered expectations. The portrait echoes a quiet strength, a sense of purpose that transcends the canvas. It acknowledges the sitter’s active participation in the art world, a world often dominated by male voices. It invites us to consider the role of women as gatekeepers and interpreters of culture, and the subtle but profound ways they shape our understanding of art history.