Portrait of the surgeon N.I. Pirogov (1810-1881) Ilya Repin (1844-1930)

Description of Ilya Repin’s Portrait of Pirogov

This canvas was painted by Repin back in 1881. At that time the artist seemed to foresee the imminent death of the great scientist and physician, for just a few months after the painting was completed, Pirogov himself was dying.

Quite recently the hundredth anniversary of the scientist’s professional activities was celebrated. His contribution to the development of the country is impossible to convey in a few words, so let’s proceed directly to the painting itself, which was created in spite of the tight deadlines caused by the busy and busy schedule of the scientist.

After completing the painting Repin has long recalled how much he was captivated by the ability to work and the vitality of Pirogov. He said that he had never been able to work so quickly as in the case of the great scientist. And it was caused not so much by haste as by the great inspiration of the vitality and energy that emanated from the great surgeon. To be clear, that all this is not empty words say only that Repin took only 3 visits to Pirogov to the portrait was ready.

Looking at the canvas, we immediately turn our attention to the dark background. It beautifully highlights the surgeon’s gray temples and slightly reddish face. The man’s gaze immediately betrays his strong-willed and determined character, as well as his lack of fear of any difficulties that come his way. The professor’s lips are slightly pursed. He resolutely crossed his arms across his chest, unwilling to reveal his secrets to anyone he knows, frowning his brow and lowering his eyebrows. We can see that the professor is not just stubborn, he is very hot-headed in character, which is also evidence of a temper. Despite these seemingly overly harsh and decisive features, Pirogov does not appear angry or dejected; on the contrary, a deep wisdom and invaluable life experience runs through the entire canvas.