Night at Gurzuf by Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky
Description: Night at Gurzuf (circa 1871) by Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky is a masterful depiction of a nighttime seascape, showcasing the dramatic interplay of light and shadow over the waters of Gurzuf, a small port on the Crimean coast. The painting captures the tranquil yet imposing presence of the night sea, with Aivazovsky’s characteristic attention to the movement and texture of the waves. The work reflects his renowned ability to convey the sublime power and mystery of the sea through detailed and emotive brushwork.
Ivan Konstantinovich Aivazovsky (1817–1900) was a Russian Romantic painter celebrated for his exceptional maritime scenes. Educated at the Imperial Academy of Arts in St. Petersburg, Aivazovsky became known for his dramatic and atmospheric portrayals of the sea, often using a vibrant palette and dynamic compositions. Night at Gurzuf exemplifies his skill in rendering the subtle nuances of light and movement on the water, a hallmark of his extensive body of work.
Details:
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Location and Date Created: Created around 1871, in Gurzuf, Crimea.
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Medium: Oil on canvas.
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Full Artwork Name: Night at Gurzuf.
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Artwork Style: Romanticism.
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Subject/Topic: A depiction of a nighttime seascape at Gurzuf, highlighting the dramatic effects of light and shadow on the sea.