In the Kitchen 1913

Vladimir Makovsky painted this scene, 'In the Kitchen', sometime in the late 19th century, using oil on canvas. It offers us a glimpse into the everyday life of a Russian family. Paintings like this tell us much about social and cultural values. Makovsky was a member of the Peredvizhniki, or Wanderers, a group of Russian realist artists who aimed to depict the lives of ordinary people and critique social inequality. In their rejection of academic art, they formed a cooperative, organizing traveling exhibitions in the Russian provinces. These exhibitions were intended to make art accessible to a wider audience, outside of the established art institutions of Moscow and St. Petersburg. Through careful attention to details like clothing, interior décor, and activities, the artist offers insights into the social conditions of the time. By examining archival materials, such as photographs, letters, and economic records, we can better understand the historical context and cultural significance of artworks like this one. The painting therefore serves as a valuable resource for understanding Russian society at the time.