Portrait of Ivan A. (Johann Georg) Von Lieven 1825

This is George Dawe’s portrait of Ivan A. (Johann Georg) Von Lieven, currently housed in the Hermitage Museum. Painted during a time of significant social upheaval, this portrait operates on multiple levels. As a commissioned piece it certainly speaks to power and status, but the subject’s gaze evokes something deeper, offering a glimpse into the anxieties and aspirations of the individual. Consider how Lieven's identity as a military figure is constructed through the symbols of rank and honor. The weight of his uniform and the numerous medals, each a marker of service and valor, speak volumes about his commitment to the Russian Empire. Yet, there's a vulnerability in his expression, a quiet introspection that complicates the image of the stoic warrior. Dawe's skill lies in capturing this duality, inviting us to reflect on the human cost of war and the psychological burdens carried by those in positions of power.