Boris Kustodiev (1878-1927) was a Russian painter and graphic artist known for his contributions to the Russian Symbolist and post-Impressionist art movements. He was celebrated for his rich and colorful depictions of Russian life and culture. Here are some key points about Boris Kustodiev and his work:1. **Early Life and Education:** Boris Kustodiev was born on March 7, 1878, in Astrakhan, Russia. He came from a working-class family and displayed an early talent for drawing. He studied art at the Imperial Academy of Arts in St. Petersburg, Russia.2. **Symbolism and Post-Impressionism:** Kustodiev's early works were influenced by the Symbolist and post-Impressionist movements. He was particularly inspired by the works of Vincent van Gogh and Paul Gauguin.3. **Colorful and Expressive Style:** Kustodiev's art is characterized by its vibrant colors, expressive brushwork, and emphasis on the emotional and psychological aspects of his subjects. His use of color and light gave his paintings a sense of warmth and vitality.4. **Portraits:** Kustodiev was known for his portraits, which often depicted Russian peasants, merchants, and individuals from various walks of life. He had a talent for capturing the unique personalities and characteristics of his subjects.5. **Festive Scenes:** Many of Kustodiev's paintings celebrated Russian festivals and traditions. His works often depicted lively and joyful scenes of people celebrating holidays and cultural events.6. **The Merchant's Wife:** One of Kustodiev's most famous works is "The Merchant's Wife" (1918), which portrays a merchant's wife in a traditional Russian costume. The painting is notable for its exquisite detail and the intricate patterns of the woman's clothing.7. **Themes of Russian Identity:** Kustodiev's art was deeply rooted in the cultural and historical identity of Russia. He celebrated the traditions, customs, and way of life of the Russian people.8. **Illness and Disability:** In 1916, Kustodiev developed a serious illness that left him bedridden for several years. Despite his physical limitations, he continued to paint and create art, often focusing on themes related to disability and illness.9. **Book Illustrations:** Kustodiev was also known for his book illustrations, particularly for works by Russian authors such as Nikolai Gogol and Aleksandr Pushkin. His illustrations added visual depth and richness to the texts.10. **Legacy:** Boris Kustodiev's contributions to Russian art, with his emphasis on color and the celebration of Russian culture, continue to be celebrated. His paintings are held in major museum collections, and he is regarded as one of the important artists of the Russian Silver Age.11. **Passing:** Boris Kustodiev passed away on May 28, 1927, in Leningrad (now St. Petersburg), Russia. His work continues to be admired for its vivid and expressive portrayal of Russian life and culture.Boris Kustodiev's art captured the essence of Russian life and identity during a transformative period in the country's history. His use of color and his ability to convey the emotional depth of his subjects remain a testament to his artistic talent and vision.
Measures 24 x 36 (image), 42.5 x 30.5 (framed).

Good condition. No rips, tears, creases.