Artwork
Abdoul-Rakhman - Khan de Kazi-Koumyk
Abdoul-Rakhman - Khan de Kazi-Koumyk is a watercolor work on paper by the Romanticist artist Grigoriy Grigorievich Gagarin. It dates from 1842 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
This watercolour portrait, created by Prince Grigoriy Grigorievich Gagarin in 1842, depicts Abdoul-Rakhman, Khan of Kazi-Koumyk. The work is a representation of a figure from the Caucasus region.
Subject & Meaning
The subject is shown seated cross-legged, wearing ornate attire including a fur hat, striped shirt, and purple robe, holding a red bow and curved sword. His serious expression and dignified pose convey a sense of authority and strength.
Technique & Style
Gagarin's use of loose brushstrokes and watercolour creates a soft, warm effect, lending the portrait a sketchy, informal quality. The artist's focus on capturing the subject's presence and attire is evident in the rendering of the rich, colourful clothing.
History & Provenance
The watercolour was reproduced in Gagarin's publication Scènes, paysages, moeurs et costumes du Caucase as plate 40. It was later sold at Sotheby's Islamic Sale on April 19, 1978, as part of a group of items.
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Artist & collection
Artist
This Russian prince-turned-diplomat sketched the Caucasus like a tourist with a sharp eye.
Lycian Figure
A Tatar, or Government Courier
Cheshmagee Ahmet
Sheik of Turkish Cavalry
Jafer Beck Affendi
Mahmoud
Persian Shawl-Merchant
Soldier
Thomas Vouchicht (the wolf's cub) Peri Schicsh, Minister of the home department in Servia
Kalyoncu, or Sea Captain
`Abdul Samud - Persian General in Dost Mohd.s. Service Kabul'- Abdourachman