Refusal of the Confession 1885

"Refusal of the Confession" (1885), by renowned Russian painter Ilya Repin (1844-1930), depicts a powerful scene of defiance. A young man, clad in a simple robe, sits on a bed, refusing to confess his sins to a priest. The priest, dressed in black robes, holds a crucifix, symbolizing his faith and authority. The dimly lit setting adds to the dramatic tension, highlighting the struggle of the man against societal and religious pressure. Currently housed in the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow, this small yet impactful oil painting is a significant example of Repin's mastery of depicting human emotion and social commentary.