Fedor Ilych Baikov, 1818-1890

Original canvas. There is a 10 by 14cm. patch to the reverse l.r. The paint surface is dirty and there is a layer of discoloured varnish. There are fine lines of craquelure throughout and light rubbing to the paint surface at the edges. Examination under ultraviolet light reveals some spots of retouching to eh edges and elsewhere l.r. but the presence of an opaque layer of varnish prevents a more conclusive examination. Unframed. TO BE FRAMED.
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This work showcases Baikov's talent as a landscape painter. The infantry in the foreground are shown from the rear, making it impossible to distinguish their facings. The cavalry crossing further upstream are to so small as scale as to prevent identification. Indeed the only character shown in any detail is the steppe horseman who has joined the observers on the bank in the lower left of the picture.

 

But the tranquillity of this river crossing scene belies the difficulty of such an event. The manoeuvre shown appears to be an exercise, as suggested by the presence of observers and senior officers on the bank in the foreground. The mounted officer in the lower left urges his company to a speedier crossing, under the keen eye of the other officers higher up on the same bank. The tone for the whole work is an exercise within an exercise: an essay in Baikov's twin talents of realistic military portrayal in a majestic steppe landscape setting.