Portrait of the poet Nikolai Nekrasov 1877

Ivan Kramskoy’s *Portrait of the poet Nikolai Nekrasov* (1877) is a striking realist depiction of the prominent Russian poet, known for his poignant social commentary. Kramskoy, a leading figure in the Peredvizhniki movement, captures Nekrasov’s pensive expression and worn features, likely reflecting the poet's struggles with illness and his commitment to social justice. The painting's somber tones and realistic detail evoke the spirit of the time, capturing the raw emotion and social consciousness of the period. The close-up composition and direct gaze of the sitter draw the viewer into a personal encounter with this literary figure.