Ivan Aivazovsky is a genius. His paintings are true masterpieces. And not even from the technical side. What comes to the fore here is a surprisingly truthful reflection of the subtle nature of the water element. Naturally, there is a desire to understand the nature of Aivazovsky’s genius.
Any piece of fate was a necessary and inseparable addition to his talent. In this article we will try to open the doors to amazing world one of the most famous marine painters in history - Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky.
It goes without saying that world-class painting requires great talent. But marine painters have always stood apart. Convey aesthetics " big water" difficult. The difficulty here, first of all, is that it is on canvases depicting the sea that the falseness is most clearly felt.
Famous paintings by Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky
The most interesting thing for you!
Family and hometown
Ivan's father was a sociable, enterprising and capable man. For a long time he lived in Galicia, later moving to Wallachia (modern Moldavia). Perhaps he traveled with a gypsy camp for some time, because Konstantin spoke Gypsy. Besides him, by the way, this most curious man spoke Polish, Russian, Ukrainian, Hungarian, and Turkish.
In the end, fate brought him to Feodosia, which recently received the status of a free port. The city, which until recently had 350 inhabitants, has become a vibrant one. shopping mall with a population of several thousand people.
From all over the south Russian Empire cargo was delivered to the port of Feodosia, and goods from sunny Greece and bright Italy were sent back. Konstantin Grigorievich, not rich, but enterprising, successfully engaged in trade and married an Armenian woman named Hripsime. A year later, their son Gabriel was born. Konstantin and Hripsime were happy and even began to think about changing their housing - the small house they built upon their arrival in the city became a bit cramped.
But soon it began Patriotic War 1812, and after it a plague epidemic came to the city. At the same time, another son was born into the family - Gregory. Konstantin's affairs went downhill sharply, he went bankrupt. The need was so great that almost all valuables from the house had to be sold. The father of the family became involved in litigation. His beloved wife helped him a lot - Repsime was a skilled needlewoman and often embroidered all night long in order to later sell her products and support the family.
On July 17, 1817, Hovhannes was born, who became known to the whole world under the name of Ivan Aivazovsky (he changed his last name only in 1841, but we will call Ivan Konstantinovich that now, after all, he became famous as Aivazovsky). It cannot be said that his childhood was like a fairy tale. The family was poor and at the age of 10 Hovhannes went to work in a coffee shop. By that time, the older brother had left to study in Venice, and the middle brother was just receiving his education at the district school.
Despite the work, the soul of the future artist truly blossomed in the beautiful southern city. Not surprising! Theodosia, despite all the efforts of fate, did not want to lose her brightness. Armenians, Greeks, Turks, Tatars, Russians, Ukrainians - a mishmash of traditions, customs, languages created a colorful background of Feodosian life. But in the foreground was, of course, the sea. It is this that brings that very flavor that no one can recreate artificially.
The incredible luck of Vanya Aivazovsky
Ivan was a very capable child - he learned to play the violin himself and began to draw. His first easel was the wall of his father’s house; instead of a canvas, he was content with plaster, and a piece of coal replaced the brush. The amazing boy was immediately noticed by a couple of prominent benefactors. First, the Feodosia architect Yakov Khristianovich Koch drew attention to the drawings of unusual craftsmanship.
He gave Vanya his first lessons visual arts. Later, after hearing Aivazovsky play the violin, the mayor Alexander Ivanovich Kaznacheev became interested in him. A funny story happened when Koch decided to introduce little artist Treasurer, he turned out to be already familiar with him. Thanks to the patronage of Alexander Ivanovich, in 1830 Vanya entered the Simferopol Lyceum.
The next three years became an important milestone in Aivazovsky's life. While studying at the Lyceum, he differed from others in his completely unimaginable talent for drawing. It was hard for the boy - longing for his family and, of course, the sea affected him. But he kept his old acquaintances and made new ones, no less useful. First, Kaznacheev was transferred to Simferopol, and later Ivan began to enter the house of Natalya Fedorovna Naryshkina. The boy was allowed to use books and engravings; he constantly worked, looking for new subjects and techniques. Every day the skill of the genius grew.
Noble patrons of Aivazovsky’s talent decided to petition for his admission to the St. Petersburg Academy of Arts, and sent him to the capital best drawings. After viewing them, the President of the Academy, Alexei Nikolaevich Olenin, wrote to the Minister of the Court, Prince Volkonsky:
“The young Gaivazovsky, judging by his drawing, has an extreme affinity for composition, but how, being in the Crimea, he could not have been prepared there for drawing and painting, so as not only to be sent to foreign lands and study there without guidance, but even so as to become a full-time academician of the Imperial Academy of Arts, for on the basis of § 2 of the addition to its regulations, those entering must be at least 14 years old.
It is good to draw, at least from originals, a human figure, to draw orders of architecture and to have preliminary knowledge in the sciences, so as not to deprive young man case and ways to develop and improve his natural abilities for art, I considered the only means for this to be the highest permission to appoint him to the academy as a pensioner of His Imperial Majesty with production for his maintenance and other 600 rubles. from His Majesty’s Cabinet so that he could be brought here at public expense.”
The permission that Olenin asked for was received when Volkonsky showed the drawings personally to Emperor Nicholas. July 22 St. Petersburg Academy of Arts accepted a new student for training. Childhood is over. But Aivazovsky went to St. Petersburg without fear - he truly felt that brilliant achievements of artistic genius lay ahead.
Big city - big opportunities
The St. Petersburg period of Aivazovsky’s life is interesting for several reasons. Of course, training at the Academy played an important role. Ivan’s talent was complemented by much-needed academic lessons. But in this article I would like to first of all talk about your social circle young artist. Truly, Aivazovsky was always lucky to have acquaintances.
Aivazovsky arrived in St. Petersburg in August. And although he had heard a lot about the terrible St. Petersburg dampness and cold, in the summer he felt none of this. Ivan walked around the city all day. Apparently, the artist’s soul filled the longing for the familiar south with beautiful views of the city on the Neva. Aivazovsky was especially struck by the construction of St. Isaac's Cathedral and the monument to Peter the Great. The massive bronze figure of the first emperor of Russia aroused genuine admiration for the artist. Still would! It was Peter who owed the existence of this wonderful city.
Amazing talent and acquaintance with Kaznacheev made Hovhannes a favorite of the public. Moreover, this audience was very influential and more than once helped the young talent. Vorobyov, Aivazovsky’s first teacher at the Academy, immediately realized what a talent he had. Undoubtedly these creative people Music also brought them together - Maxim Nikiforovich, like his student, also played the violin.
But over time, it became obvious that Aivazovsky had outgrown Vorobyov. Then he was sent as a student to the French marine painter Philippe Tanner. But Ivan did not get along with the foreigner and, due to illness (either fictitious or real), left him. Instead, he began working on a series of paintings for an exhibition. And it must be admitted that he created impressive canvases. It was then, in 1835, that he received a silver medal for his works “Study of air over the sea” and “View of the seaside in the vicinity of St. Petersburg.”
But alas, the capital was not only cultural center, but also the epicenter of intrigue. Tanner complained to his superiors about the rebellious Aivazovsky, saying, why did his student work for himself during his illness? Nicholas I, a well-known disciplinarian, personally ordered the removal of the young artist’s paintings from the exhibition. It was a very painful blow.
Aivazovsky was not allowed to mope - the entire public vehemently opposed his groundless disgrace. Olenin, Zhukovsky, and the court artist Sauerweid petitioned for Ivan's forgiveness. Krylov himself personally came to console Hovhannes: “What. brother, is the Frenchman offending you? Eh, what kind of guy is he... Well, God bless him! Do not be sad!..". In the end, justice triumphed - the emperor forgave the young artist and ordered the award to be issued.
Largely thanks to Sauerweid, Ivan was able to undergo summer internship on ships of the Baltic Fleet. Created just a hundred years ago, the fleet was already a formidable force. Russian state. And, of course, for a beginning marine painter it was impossible to find a more necessary, useful and enjoyable practice.
Writing ships without the slightest idea about their structure is a crime! Ivan did not hesitate to communicate with sailors and carry out small tasks for officers. And in the evenings he played his favorite violin for the team - in the middle of the cold Baltic, the enchanting sound of the Black Sea south could be heard.
Charming artist
All this time, Aivazovsky did not stop corresponding with his old benefactor Kaznacheev. It was thanks to him that Ivan began to enter the houses of Alexei Romanovich Tomilov and Alexander Arkadyevich Suvorov-Rymniksky, the grandson of the famous commander. At the Tomilovs' dacha, Ivan even spent summer holidays. It was then that Aivazovsky became acquainted with Russian nature, unusual for a southerner. But the artist’s heart perceives beauty in any form. Every day Aivazovsky spent in St. Petersburg or the surrounding area added something new to the worldview of the future maestro of painting.
The top of the intelligentsia of that time gathered in the Tomilovs' house - Mikhail Glinka, Orest Kiprensky, Nestor Kukolnik, Vasily Zhukovsky. Evenings in such company were extremely interesting for the artist. Aivazovsky's senior comrades accepted him into their circle without any problems. The democratic tendencies of the intelligentsia and the extraordinary talent of the young man allowed him to take a worthy place in the company of Tomilov’s friends. In the evenings, Aivazovsky often played the violin in a special, oriental manner - resting the instrument on his knee or standing it upright. Glinka even included Ruslan and Lyudmila in his opera. short excerpt, played by Aivazovsky.
It is known that Aivazovsky was familiar with Pushkin and loved his poetry very much. The death of Alexander Sergeevich was taken very painfully by Hovhannes; later he specially came to Gurzuf, precisely to the place where he spent time great poet. No less important for Ivan was the meeting with Karl Bryullov. Having recently completed work on the canvas “The Last Day of Pompeii,” he came to St. Petersburg and each of the Academy students passionately wished that Bryullov would be his mentor.
Aivazovsky was not a student of Bryullov, but often communicated with him personally, and Karl Pavlovich noted Hovhannes’ talent. Nestor Kukolnik dedicated a lengthy article to Aivazovsky precisely at Bryullov’s insistence. The experienced painter saw that subsequent studies at the Academy would be more of a regression for Ivan - there were no teachers left who could give something new to the young artist.
He proposed to the Academy council to shorten Aivazovsky’s training period and send him abroad. Moreover, the new marina “Shtil” won a gold medal at the exhibition. And this award just gave the right to travel abroad.
But instead of Venice and Dresden, Hovhannes was sent to Crimea for two years. Aivazovsky was hardly happy - he would be home again!
Rest…
In the spring of 1838, Aivazovsky arrived in Feodosia. Finally he saw his family, his beloved city and, of course, the southern sea. Of course, the Baltic has its own charm. But for Aivazovsky, it is the Black Sea that will always be the source of the brightest inspiration. Even after such a long separation from his family, the artist puts work first.
He finds time to communicate with his mother, father, sisters and brother - everyone is sincerely proud of Hovhannes, the most promising artist in St. Petersburg! At the same time, Aivazovsky is working hard. He paints canvases for hours, and then, tired, he goes to the sea. Here he can feel that mood, that elusive excitement that the Black Sea aroused in him from an early age.
Soon the retired Treasurer came to visit the Aivazovskys. He, along with his parents, rejoiced at Hovhannes’ success and first of all asked to see his new drawings. Having seen the beautiful works, he immediately took the artist with him on a trip along the southern coast of Crimea.
Of course, after such a long separation, it was unpleasant to leave the family again, but the desire to feel the native Crimea outweighed. Yalta, Gurzuf, Sevastopol - everywhere Aivazovsky found material for new canvases. Treasurers, who had left for Simferopol, urgently invited the artist to visit, but he again and again upset the benefactor with his refusal - work came first.
...before the fight!
At this time, Aivazovsky met another wonderful person. Nikolai Nikolaevich Raevsky is a brave man, an outstanding commander, the son of Nikolai Nikolaevich Raevsky, the hero of the defense of Raevsky’s battery in the Battle of Borodino. The lieutenant general participated in Napoleonic Wars, Caucasian campaigns.
These two seemingly dissimilar people were brought together by their love for Pushkin. Aivazovsky, who admired the poetic genius of Alexander Sergeevich from an early age, found a kindred spirit in Raevsky. Long, exciting conversations about the poet ended completely unexpectedly - Nikolai Nikolaevich invited Aivazovsky to accompany him on a sea voyage to the shores of the Caucasus and watch the Russian landing. It was an invaluable opportunity to see something new, and even on the much-loved Black Sea. Hovhannes immediately agreed.
Of course, this trip was important in terms of creativity. But even here there were invaluable meetings, it would be a crime to keep silent about them. On the ship "Colchis" Aivazovsky met Lev Sergeevich Pushkin, Alexander's brother. Later, when the ship joined the main squadron, Ivan met people who were an inexhaustible source of inspiration for the marine painter.
Having moved from Colchis to the battleship Silistria, Aivazovsky was introduced to Mikhail Petrovich Lazarev. A hero of Russia, a participant in the famous Battle of Navarino and the discoverer of Antarctica, an innovator and a competent commander, he became keenly interested in Aivazovsky and personally invited him to move from Colchis to Silistria to study the intricacies of naval affairs, which would undoubtedly be useful to him in his work. It would seem much further: Lev Pushkin, Nikolai Raevsky, Mikhail Lazarev - some will not meet even one person of this caliber in their entire lives. But Aivazovsky has a completely different fate.
Later he was introduced to Pavel Stepanovich Nakhimov, captain of the Silistria, future commander of the Russian fleet in the Battle of Sinop and organizer of the heroic defense of Sevastopol. In this brilliant company, the young Vladimir Alekseevich Kornilov, the future vice-admiral and captain of the famous sailing ship “The Twelve Apostles,” did not get lost at all. Aivazovsky worked with a very special passion these days: the situation was unique. Warm surroundings, the beloved Black Sea and elegant ships that you could explore as much as your heart desires.
But now the time has come to disembark. Aivazovsky personally wanted to take part in it. At the last moment they discovered that the artist was completely unarmed (of course!) and he was given a pair of pistols. So Ivan went down into the landing boat - with a briefcase for papers and paints and pistols in his belt. Although his boat was among the first to moor to the shore, Aivazovsky did not personally observe the battle. A few minutes after the landing, the artist’s friend, midshipman Fredericks, was wounded. Not finding a doctor, Ivan himself provides assistance to the wounded man, and then takes him to the ship on a boat. But upon returning to shore, Aivazovsky sees that the battle is almost over. He gets to work without hesitating for a minute. However, let’s give the floor to the artist himself, who described the landing in the magazine “Kiev Antiquity” almost forty years later - in 1878:
“...The shore, illuminated by the setting sun, a forest, distant mountains, a fleet at anchor, boats scurrying on the sea, maintaining communication with the shore... Having passed the forest, I entered a clearing; here is a picture of a rest after a recent battle alarm: groups of soldiers, officers sitting on drums, corpses of the dead and Circassian carts arriving to clean up theirs. Having unfolded the briefcase, I armed myself with a pencil and began to sketch one group. At this time, some Circassian unceremoniously took the briefcase from my hands and carried it to show my drawing to his own. Whether the mountaineers liked him, I don’t know; I only remember that the Circassian returned the drawing to me, stained with blood... This “local color” remained on it, and I for a long time the shore is a tangible memory of the expedition...”
What words! The artist saw everything - the shore, the setting sun, the forest, the mountains and, of course, the ships. A little later, he wrote one of his best works, “Landing at Subashi.” But this genius was in mortal danger during the landing! But Fate preserved him for further achievements. During his vacation, Aivazovsky also had a trip to the Caucasus and hard work on turning sketches into real canvases. But he coped with flying colors. As always, however.
Hello Europe!
Returning to St. Petersburg, Aivazovsky received the title of artist of the 14th class. His studies at the Academy ended, Hovhannes had outgrown all his teachers and he was given the opportunity to travel around Europe, naturally, with government support. He left with light soul: earnings allowed me to help my parents, and to live quite comfortably myself. And although Aivazovsky first had to visit Berlin, Vienna, Trieste, Dresden, most of all he was drawn to Italy. There was the much-loved southern sea and the elusive magic of the Apennines. In July 1840, Ivan Aivazovsky and his friend and classmate Vasily Sternberg went to Rome.
This trip to Italy was very useful for Aivazovsky. He received a unique opportunity to study the works of great Italian masters. He spent hours standing by the canvases, sketching them, trying to understand the secret mechanism that made the creations of Raphael and Botticelli masterpieces. I tried to visit many interesting places, for example, the house of Columbus in Genoa. And what landscapes he found! The Apennines reminded Ivan of his native Crimea, but with its own, different charm.
And there was no feeling of kinship with the land. But there are so many opportunities for creativity! And Aivazovsky always took advantage of the opportunities provided to him. A remarkable fact speaks eloquently about the level of the artist’s skill: the Pope himself wanted to buy the painting “Chaos”. Somehow, the pontiff is used to receiving only the best! The shrewd artist refused payment, simply giving “Chaos” to Gregory XVI. Dad did not leave him without a reward, presenting him with a gold medal. But the main thing is the effect of the gift in the world of painting - the name of Aivazovsky thundered throughout Europe. For the first, but far from the last time.
Besides work, however, Ivan had another reason to visit Italy, or rather Venice. It was there on the island of St. Lazarus lived and worked with his brother Gabriel. While in the rank of archimandrite, he studied research work and teaching. The meeting between the brothers was warm; Gabriel asked a lot about Feodosia and his parents. But they soon broke up. The next time they meet is in Paris in a few years. In Rome, Aivazovsky met Nikolai Vasilyevich Gogol and Alexander Andreevich Ivanov. Even here, on foreign soil, Ivan managed to find the best representatives of the Russian land!
Exhibitions of Aivazovsky’s paintings also took place in Italy. The public was invariably delighted and keenly interested in this young Russian, who managed to convey all the warmth of the south. Increasingly, they began to recognize Aivazovsky on the streets, come to his workshop and order works. “Gulf of Naples”, “View of Vesuvius in moonlit night”, “View of the Venetian Lagoon” - these masterpieces were the quintessence of the Italian spirit passed through the soul of Aivazovsky. In April 1842, he sent some of the paintings to Petersburg and notified Olenin of his intention to visit France and the Netherlands. Ivan no longer asks for permission to travel - he has enough money, he has loudly declared himself and will be warmly received in any country. He asks only for one thing - that his salary be sent to his mother.
Aivazovsky's paintings were presented at an exhibition in the Louvre and impressed the French so much that he was awarded a gold medal from the French Academy. But he did not limit himself to France alone: England, Spain, Portugal, Malta - everywhere where one could see such dear to my heart sea, the artist visited. The exhibitions were a success and Aivazovsky was unanimously showered with compliments from critics and inexperienced visitors. There was no longer a shortage of money, but Aivazovsky lived modestly, devoting himself to work to the fullest.
Artist of the Main Naval Staff
Not wanting to prolong his voyage, already in 1844 he returned to St. Petersburg. On July 1, he was awarded the Order of St. Anne, 3rd degree, and in September of the same year, Aivazovsky received the title of academician of the St. Petersburg Academy of Arts. In addition, he is included in the Main Naval Staff with the right to wear a uniform! We know with what reverence sailors treat the honor of their uniform. And here it is worn by a civilian, and an artist at that!
Nevertheless, this appointment was welcomed at Headquarters, and Ivan Konstantinovich (you can already call him that - a world-famous artist, after all!) enjoyed all the possible privileges of this position. He demanded drawings of ships, ship guns were fired for him (so that he could get a better look at the trajectory of the cannonball), Aivazovsky even took part in maneuvers in the Gulf of Finland! In a word, he didn’t just serve the number, but worked diligently and with desire. Naturally, the canvases were also on the level. Soon Aivazovsky’s paintings began to decorate the residences of the emperor, the houses of the nobility, state galleries and private collections.
The next year was very busy. In April 1845, Ivan Konstantinovich was included in the Russian delegation that was heading to Constantinople. Having visited Turkey, Aivazovsky was struck by the beauty of Istanbul and the beautiful coast of Anatolia. After some time he returned to Feodosia, where he bought land plot and began building his own workshop house, which he designed personally. Many do not understand the artist - the sovereign’s favorite, a popular artist, why not live in the capital? Or abroad? Feodosia is a wild wilderness! But Aivazovsky doesn’t think so. He arranges an exhibition of his paintings in the newly built house, on which he works day and night. Many guests noted that despite the seemingly home conditions, Ivan Konstantinovich became haggard and pale. But, in spite of everything, Aivazovsky finishes work and goes to St. Petersburg - he is still a service man, you cannot treat this irresponsibly!
Love and War
In 1846, Aivazovsky arrived in the capital and stayed there for several years. The reason for this was permanent exhibitions. At intervals of six months, they took place either in St. Petersburg or in Moscow in completely different places, sometimes cash, sometimes free. And at every exhibition there was always the presence of Aivazovsky. He received thanks, came to visit, accepted gifts and orders. Free time was rare in this bustle. One of the most famous paintings- “The Ninth Wave.”
But it is worth noting that Ivan still went to Feodosia. The reason for this was extremely important - in 1848 Aivazovsky got married. Suddenly? Until the age of 31, the artist did not have a lover - all his emotions and experiences remained on the canvases. And here is such an unexpected step. However, southern blood is hot, and love is an unpredictable thing. But even more amazing is Aivazovsky’s chosen one - a simple servant Julia Grace, an Englishwoman, the daughter of a physician who served Emperor Alexander.
Of course, this marriage did not go unnoticed in the social circles of St. Petersburg - many were surprised at the artist’s choice, many openly criticized him. Tired, apparently, from close attention to one’s personal life, Aivazovsky and his wife went home to Crimea in 1852. An additional reason (or maybe the main one?) was that first daughter - Elena, was already three years old, and second daughter - Maria, recently celebrated one year. In any case, Feodosia was waiting for Aivazovsky.
At home the artist is trying to organize art school, but receives a refusal from the emperor for funding. Instead, he and his wife begin archaeological excavations. In 1852, a family was born third daughter - Alexandra. Ivan Konstantinovich, of course, does not give up work on paintings. But in 1854, troops landed in Crimea, Aivazovsky hastily took his family to Kharkov, and he himself returned to besieged Sevastopol to his old acquaintance Kornilov.
Kornilov orders the artist to leave the city, saving him from possible death. Aivazovsky obeys. Soon the war ends. For everyone, but not for Aivazovsky - he will paint some more brilliant paintings on the theme of the Crimean War.
The following years pass in turmoil. Aivazovsky regularly travels to the capital, takes care of the affairs of Feodosia, goes to Paris to meet his brother, and opens an art school. Born in 1859 fourth daughter - Zhanna. But Aivazovsky is constantly busy. Despite traveling, creativity takes up the most time. During this period, paintings on biblical themes and battle paintings were created, which regularly appear at exhibitions - in Feodosia, Odessa, Taganrog, Moscow, St. Petersburg. In 1865, Aivazovsky received the Order of St. Vladimir, 3rd degree.
Admiral Aivazovsky
But Julia is not happy. Why does she need orders? Ivan ignores her requests, she does not receive due attention and in 1866 refuses to return to Feodosia. Aivazovsky took the breakup of his family hard, and in order to distract himself, he devoted himself entirely to work. He paints pictures, travels around the Caucasus, Armenia, devotes everything free time students of his art academy.
In 1869, he went to the opening, the same year he organized another exhibition in St. Petersburg, and the next year he received the title of full state councilor, which corresponded to the rank of admiral. A unique case in Russian history! In 1872 he had an exhibition in Florence, for which he had been preparing for several years. But the effect exceeded all expectations - he was elected an honorary member of the Academy of Fine Arts, and his self-portrait adorned the gallery of the Pitti Palace - Ivan Konstantinovich stood on a par with the best artists Italy and the world.
A year later, having organized another exhibition in the capital, Aivazovsky left for Istanbul at the personal invitation of the Sultan. This year turned out to be fruitful - 25 canvases were painted for the Sultan! The sincerely admired Turkish ruler bestows the Order of Osmaniye, second degree, on Peter Konstantinovich. In 1875, Aivazovsky left Turkey and headed to St. Petersburg. But on the way he stops in Odessa to see his wife and children. Realizing that one cannot expect warmth from Yulia, he invites her and his daughter Zhanna to next year will go to Italy. The wife accepts the proposal.
During the trip, the couple visit Florence, Nice, and Paris. Yulia is pleased to appear with her husband at social functions, but Aivazovsky considers this to be of secondary importance and devotes all his free time to work. Realizing that his former marital happiness could not be returned, Aivazovsky asked the church to end the marriage and in 1877 his request was granted.
Returning to Russia, he travels to Feodosia with his daughter Alexandra, son-in-law Mikhail and grandson Nikolai. But Aivazovsky’s children did not have time to settle into the new place - another Russian-Turkish war. Next year, the artist sends his daughter with her husband and son to Feodosia, and he himself goes abroad. For two whole years.
He will visit Germany and France, visit Genoa again, and will prepare paintings for exhibitions in Paris and London. Constantly seeks out promising artists from Russia, sending petitions to the Academy about their content. He received the news of his brother's death in 1879 painfully. To avoid moping, I went to work out of habit.
Love in Feodosia and love for Feodosia
Returning to his homeland in 1880, Aivazovsky immediately went to Feodosia and began construction of a special pavilion for an art gallery. He spends a lot of time with his grandson Misha, taking long walks with him, carefully instilling artistic taste. Aivazovsky devotes several hours every day to students of the art academy. He works with inspiration, with unusual enthusiasm for his age. But he also demands a lot from students, is strict with them, and few can stand studying with Ivan Konstantinovich.
In 1882, the incomprehensible happened - the 65-year-old artist married a second time! His chosen one was a 25-year-old Anna Nikitichna Burnazyan. Since Anna was recently widowed (in fact, it was at her husband’s funeral that Aivazovsky drew attention to her), the artist had to wait a little before proposing marriage. January 30, 1882 Simferopol St. Assumption Church “actual state councilor I.K. Aivazovsky, divorced by decree of the Etchmiadzin Synoid of May 30, 1877 N 1361 from his first wife from a legal marriage, entered into a second legal marriage with the wife of a Feodosian merchant, widow Anna Mgrtchyan Sarsizova, both Armenian-Gregorian confessions."
Soon the couple travel to Greece, where Aivazovsky works again, including painting a portrait of his wife. In 1883, he constantly wrote letters to ministers, defending Feodosia and proving in every possible way that its location was perfectly suited for the construction of a port, and a little later he petitioned for a replacement for the city priest. In 1887, an exhibition of paintings by the Russian artist was held in Vienna, to which, however, he did not go, remaining in Feodosia. Instead, he devotes all his free time to creativity, his wife, students, building art gallery in Yalta. The 50th anniversary was celebrated with pomp artistic activity Aivazovsky. The entire high society of St. Petersburg came to greet the professor of painting, who became one of the symbols of Russian art.
In 1888, Aivazovsky received an invitation to visit Turkey, but did not go for political reasons. Nevertheless, he sends several dozen of his paintings to Istanbul, for which the Sultan awards him in absentia the Order of Medzhidiye, first degree. A year later, the artist and his wife went to a personal exhibition in Paris, where he was awarded the Order of the Foreign Legion. On the way back, the couple still stops at Istanbul, so beloved by Ivan Konstantinovich.
In 1892, Aivazovsky turns 75. And he goes to America! The artist plans to refresh his impressions of the ocean, see Niagara, visit New York, Chicago, Washington and present his paintings at the World Exhibition. And all this in my eighties! Well, sit in the rank of state councilor in your native Feodosia, surrounded by grandchildren and a young wife! No, Ivan Konstantinovich remembers very well why he rose so high. Hard work and fantastic dedication to work - without this, Aivazovsky will cease to be himself. However, he did not stay in America for long and returned home the same year. Came back to work. That was how Ivan Konstantinovich was.
Material from Wikipedia - the free encyclopedia:
After the end of the war in 1856, on the way from France, where international exhibition His works were exhibited, Aivazovsky visited Istanbul for the second time. He was warmly received by the local Armenian diaspora, and also, under the patronage of the court architect Sarkis Balyan, was received by Sultan Abdul-Mecid I. By that time, the Sultan’s collection already had one painting by Aivazovsky. As a sign of admiration for his work, the Sultan awarded Ivan Konstantinovich the Order of Nishan Ali, IV degree.
I.K. Aivazovsky made his third trip to Istanbul, at the invitation of the Armenian diaspora, in 1874. Many artists in Istanbul at that time were influenced by the work of Ivan Konstantinovich. This is especially evident in the marine paintings of M. Jivanyan. Brothers Gevork and Vagen Abdullahi, Melkop Telemakyu, Hovsep Samandzhiyan, Mkrtich Melkisetikyan later recalled that Aivazovsky also had a significant influence on their work. One of Aivazovsky’s paintings was presented by Sarkis Bey (Sarkis Balyan) to Sultan Abdul-Aziz. The Sultan liked the painting so much that he immediately ordered the artist 10 canvases with views of Istanbul and the Bosphorus. While working on this order, Aivazovsky constantly visited the Sultan’s palace, became friends with him, and as a result he painted not 10, but about 30 different canvases. Before Ivan Konstantinovich’s departure, an official reception was arranged for the padishah in honor of his being awarded the Order of Osmania, II degree.
A year later, Aivazovsky again goes to the Sultan and brings him two paintings as a gift: “View of St. Petersburg from the Holy Trinity Bridge” and “Winter in Moscow” (these paintings are currently in the collection of the Dolmabahce Palace Museum).
The next war with Turkey ended in 1878. The San Stefano Peace Treaty was signed in a hall whose walls were decorated with paintings by a Russian artist. It was a symbol of the future good relations between Turkey and Russia.
Paintings by I.K. Aivazovsky, which were in Turkey, were repeatedly exhibited in various exhibitions. In 1880, an exhibition of the artist’s paintings was held in the building of the Russian embassy. At the end of it, Sultan Abdul-Hamid II presented I.K. Aivazovsky with a diamond medal.
In 1881, the owner of the art store Ulman Grombach held an exhibition of works famous masters: Van Dyck, Rembrandt, Bruegl, Aivazovsky, Jerome. In 1882, an art exhibition by I.K. Aivazovsky and the Turkish artist Oskan Efendi took place here. The exhibitions were a huge success.
In 1888, another exhibition was held in Istanbul, organized by Levon Mazirov (nephew of I.K. Aivazovsky), at which 24 paintings by the artist were presented. Half of her proceeds went to charity. It was during these years that the first graduation of the Ottoman Academy of Arts occurred. Aivazovsky’s style of writing can be traced in the works of Academy graduates: “The sinking of the ship “Ertugrul” in Tokyo Bay” by the artist Osman Nuri Pasha, the painting “Ship” by Ali Cemal, some marinas of Diyarbakır Tahsin.
In 1890, Ivan Konstantinovich made his last trip to Istanbul. He visited the Armenian Patriarchate and Yildiz Palace, where he left his paintings as a gift. On this visit, he was awarded the Order of Medjidiye, I degree, by Sultan Abdul Hamid II.
Currently, several famous paintings by Aivazovsky are in Turkey. The Military Museum in Istanbul houses the 1893 painting “Ship on the Black Sea”; the 1889 painting “Ship and Boat” is kept in one of the private collections. The residence of the President of Turkey houses the painting “A Ship Sinking in a Storm” (1899).
The biography of Aivazovsky, like any creator, is full interesting events, extraordinary people who met on life path an artist and faith in his talent.
Ivan Konstantinovich was born on July 17 (29), 1817 in Feodosia. Even as a child, Ivan was shown to have a talent for music and drawing. The first lessons in artistic skill were given to him by the famous Feodosian architect, J. H. Koch.
Having graduated from the school, Aivazovsky entered the Simferopol gymnasium. After its completion, under the patronage of the Feodosian mayor, A.I. Kaznacheev, the future artist was enrolled in the capital's Imperial Academy of Arts.
Further training
In August 1833, Aivazovsky arrived in St. Petersburg. He studied with such masters as M. Vorobiev, F. Tanner, A.I. Sauerweid. His paintings, painted during his studies, were awarded a silver medal. Aivazovsky was such a gifted student that he was released from the Academy for 2 years ahead of schedule. For independent creativity, Ivan Konstantinovich was sent first to his native Crimea, and then on a business trip abroad for 6 years.
Crimean-European period
In the spring of 1838, Aivazovsky left for Crimea. There he created seascapes, studied battle painting. He stayed in Crimea for 2 years. Then, together with V. Sternberg, his friend in the landscape class, the artist went to Rome. On the way, they visited Florence and Venice, where Aivazovsky met N. Gogol.
Anyone interested in the biography of Aivazovsky should know that he acquired his style of painting in the south of Italy. Many paintings of the European period were praised by such a venerable critic as W. Turner. In 1844 Aivazovsky arrived in Russia.
Talent recognition
1844 was a landmark year for the artist. He became the main painter of the Russian Main Naval Staff. After 3 years, he was awarded the title of professor at the Academy of Arts of St. Petersburg. For children interested in the life of the great artist, it is important to know that his main works are the paintings “The Ninth Wave” and “The Black Sea”.
But his creativity was not limited to battles and seascapes. He created a series of Crimean and Ukrainian landscapes and painted several historical paintings. In total, Aivazovsky painted more than 6,000 paintings during his life.
In 1864 the artist became a hereditary nobleman. He was also awarded the rank of actual privy councilor. This rank corresponded to that of admiral.
Artist's family
Aivazovsky's personal life was not rich. He married twice. The first marriage took place in 1848. The artist’s wife was Yu.A. Graves. From this marriage four daughters were born. The union was not a happy one, and after 12 years the couple separated. The main reason parting was that Grevs, unlike her husband, sought to live social life in the capital.
Aivazovsky’s second wife was A.N. Sarkisova-Burzanyan. She was 40 years younger than Aivazovsky and outlived him by 44 years.
Death
Aivazovsky died suddenly at night from a cerebral hemorrhage on April 19 (May 2), 1900, in Feodosia. The painting “The Explosion of the Ship,” on which the marine painter had been working the day before, remained unfinished on the easel. He was buried in Armenian Church Surb Sarkis.
Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky is a famous Russian marine painter of his time. He painted 6 thousand paintings depicting “big water”. The artist was delirious about the sea. The elements were something sacred and magical for Aivazovsky. Today I will briefly talk about the biography and work of the painter.
Biography of the artist
The biography of Ivan Aivazovsky is connected with the sea. The famous marine painter was born on July 29, 1817 in the port town of the Crimean Peninsula (Feodosia). The artist's family had an average income. The boy's family supported all his endeavors, since the child had a thirst for knowledge and an accurate memory.
One day, the city's chief architect noticed a talented boy drawing the sea. The official, inspired after viewing Ivan’s paintings, gave him a set of canvases and brushes, noting the young man’s extraordinary talent. The architect contributed to Aivazovsky receiving the necessary artistic education.
From the age of 13, the future artist studied at the Simferopol gymnasium, and at 16, at the St. Petersburg Academy of Arts. In 1837 the painter became the owner of a gold medal for his success applied arts allowing you to travel abroad. The artist conquers Abkhazia, Italy, France, Holland. He makes new acquaintances, often ending in close friendships, and is actively involved in painting.
In 1844 (after returning) the artist was awarded the title of academician. Works of Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky develops fruitfully over the next few decades. The painter is working on creating new paintings, destined to have worldwide fame. At the same time, Ivan Konstantinovich is involved in charity work, huge contribution in infrastructure development hometown.
Ivan Konstantinovich created his family in 1848. Aivazovsky married the daughter of the emperor’s court physician, Julia Grevs. U married couple 4 children were born. However, the happiness turned out to be short-lived, since Julia suffered a serious nervous illness that had a detrimental effect on a woman’s behavior.
The couple divorced (the wife loved the pomp of the capital and did not want to devote her life to Feodosia). Until the end of his days, Aivazovsky tried to maintain friendly relations with his daughters. It was very difficult to maintain a friendly position due to constant interference ex-wife preventing the establishment of normal relationships.
Ivan Konstantinovich married for the second time at the age of 65 (1881). The artist’s chosen one is young Anna Sarkizova (just turned 25 years old). The woman was faithful to the painter, and accordingly, she supported Aivazovsky until the end of her days. In her honor, he painted the painting “Portrait of the Artist’s Wife.”
Creation
At the age of 20, the artist becomes the youngest graduate of the St. Petersburg Academy (according to the rules, you need to study for another 3 years). Next comes a period of travel. The painter goes to his native Crimea for 2 seasons, and then to Europe for 6 seasons. Wanderings helped the artist find individual style creating paintings, improving visual skills.
The works of Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky had big success. The Pope wished to purchase the painting “Chaos”. The artist did not want to sell the canvas, but presented the painting to the pontiff as a personal gift.
Thanks to his talent and friendly character, of course, Aivazovsky had friendly connections with many influential people. The artist was friends with Pushkin, Bryullov, Glinka, and communicated warmly with the imperial family. Fame, wealth, and worldwide recognition have not changed the painter. The first place for Ivan Konstantinovich was still occupied by calling.
Paintings by Ivan Aivazovsky are highly valued (the most expensive is $3.5 million). The original paintings are in many museums around the world. Some paintings are kept in galleries in his hometown, founded by the artist himself.
Famous paintings
Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky “The Ninth Wave” is my favorite work. The canvas depicts an angry sea raging amid a dark storm of night. The painting was painted in 1850. Today's original painting is in the State Russian Museum.
The canvas “Rainbow” depicts the tragic events of a shipwreck. The scene of the death of a ship crashing on the rocks is presented to the eye. Exhausted by the elements, the sailors are trying to escape with the help of a boat. A ghostly rainbow lights up the sky, symbolizing salvation.
“Evening in Crimea. Yalta" Aivazovsky created in 1848. The sunset gives a unique color scheme, illuminating the last sun rays mountains, people around.
“Sunset” is a painting painted by the artist in 1866. It depicts a ship among the calm waters of the evening sun. The sky is illuminated by carefree clouds, a family is located on the shore. Idyll.
The painting “Black Sea” (“A storm begins to break out on the Black Sea”) was created in 1881. The canvas shows the power sea waves engulfed in a storm. Water is depicted as attractive and enchanting. The painting is painted using preferably dark tones.
The painting “Wave” depicts the power of a sea storm, the mercilessness of the waves. Among the raging waters, the sinking ship seems small and helpless.
“Storm” shows the majesty of the sea element in moments of an all-consuming storm. Despite the shipwreck and unsuccessful efforts to save the crew, the sea remains beautiful.
"Night on the Island of Rhodes" presents an enchanting seascape with the evening sunset. There are no high waves, usual for Aivazov’s storm. The picture breathes calmness and peace.
« Chesme fight"is dedicated to the victory of the Russian people in the battle of the same name on June 24-26, 1770. The canvas depicts the confrontation between the military fleet of the native people and enemy Turkey.
“Morning at the Sea” is a calming picture, which shows the regularity of people’s lives by the sea. Refers to the late period of Aivazovsky’s work.
Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky is not just an artist. This is an entire era, immortalized in hundreds of famous paintings.
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