Sarah. 1901 Valentin Serov (1865-1911)

Description of the painting "Landscape" by Valentin Serov

Serov was not only a skilled portraitist. He created a whole series of magnificent landscapes.

Each of his paintings is a true masterpiece. Serov manages to spot a special beauty where others fail to see it. He understands that the Russian nature is magnificent. But to understand this is not given to everyone. Only a true artist can not only notice the charm of nature, but also convey his love for it through his paintings.

Serov depicts one of the corners of Russia. We see one of the many villages. It spreads out on the other bank of a narrow river. In the foreground, the artist depicts lush grass and sparse shrubs. The river in a narrow strip, as if dividing the canvas into two parts. In the distance one can see the outlines of poor wooden houses. Serov deliberately does not prescribe them. They merge into one brown mass.

Only the roofs of slightly crooked buildings can be seen. To the left in the background you can see a dense forest. Sparse trees and green hills can be seen in the background. The summer sky is covered by light clouds. The artist does not depict the sun. He only skillfully uses certain shades of green and brown to show that the day he depicts is sunny.

Looking at the painting creates a light and joyful mood. Despite the squalid houses of the small village, there is no sadness. Serov admires this corner of Russia.

The artist does not prescribe every detail. His brush strokes strike with special volume and depth. The grass and the forest in the distance merge into a kind of sea. Masterful transitions of color allow viewers to see the special charm of nature. Not everyone can notice this quiet beauty.

Serov manages to create a maximally lively landscape. It seems that another moment, and we will hear birds singing and feel the gentle breeze.

The artist manages to convey the modest splendor of a simple village.