Sergei Ivanov
1864–1910
Sergei Ivanov studied peasants and migrants while travelling through Russian provinces. He later turned to pre-Petrine history, using direct observation to develop costumes and figures. From 1903 he worked in Svistukha, making numerous studies for a large peasant-family painting. A heated studio on runners enabled winter work. His method linked historical investigation with surviving dress, everyday gestures and rural life.