By now, it is obvious that I love Ilya Repin’s paintings of famous Russian writers. This image of Tolstoy illustrates why: the coupling of serenity and realism is a powerful combination.
Portrait of Leo Tolstoy in His Study by Ilya Repin, 1891
Writers in Art: Portrait of Leo Tolstoy in His Study by Ilya Repin
A Small Press Life: Books. Art. Writing. Life. Tea. 
Hi maedez. I love the way the light comes into this room, which is siimple and unadorned but his desk and the chair against the wall speak of refinement. There are also the tools of farming – a scythe and a shovel – which add to the portrait of a man as a writer and a worker.
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Hi, Judy!
How beautifully stated! I agree that this painting captures two distinct sides of Tolstoy. And, as ever, Repin’s work here is serene and realistic. He really knew what he was doing.
I hope that you have a lovely rest of the weekend.
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Beautiful!
I know this is shallow, but I can not imagine writing THOSE BOOKS by hand! It would be arduous enough with a computer.
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I don’t think that is shallow at all, and not just because I’ve long thought the same thing. 🙂
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I don’t think that is shallow at all, and not just because I’ve long thought the same thing. 🙂
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