The painting you are referring to, which depicts a father killing his son, is Ilya Repin's famous work, Ivan the Terrible and His Son Ivan on November 16, 1581. Completed in 1883, it is also frequently known as Ivan the Terrible Killing His Son.
This powerful and emotional artwork captures the legendary moment when Ivan the Terrible, the first Tsar of Russia, in a fit of rage, fatally strikes his son, Tsarevich Ivan Ivanovich. The painting showcases the immediate aftermath of the blow, with the elder Ivan cradling his dying son, his face contorted in horror and regret.
A Controversial Masterpiece
Repin's painting has garnered significant attention not only for its artistic merit but also for its controversial subject matter and the strong emotions it evokes. It is widely considered one of Russia's most famous and impactful paintings.
The work's historical accuracy has been debated, but its artistic impact is undeniable. It portrays a dramatic and tragic human moment, exploring themes of power, violence, grief, and remorse. The use of vibrant reds, deep shadows, and intense facial expressions draws viewers into the scene, making the anguish palpable.
Key Information
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Artist | Ilya Repin |
| Full Title | Ivan the Terrible and His Son Ivan on November 16, 1581 |
| Other Names | Ivan the Terrible Killing His Son, Ivan the Terrible and His Son Ivan |
| Date Created | 1883 |
| Medium | Oil on canvas |
| Significance | One of Russia's most famous and controversial paintings |
Notable Incidents of Vandalism
Due to its intense subject matter and perhaps its controversial nature, Ivan the Terrible and His Son Ivan has been targeted by vandals on two separate occasions:
- 1913: The painting was slashed three times by a mentally ill Old Believer icon painter, Abram Balashёv, who was reportedly disturbed by the portrayal of the Tsar. Repin himself participated in the restoration of the damaged work.
- 2018: A man, reportedly intoxicated, attacked the painting with a metal pole, causing significant damage to the protective glass and tearing the canvas in three places. Fortunately, comprehensive restoration efforts followed this incident as well.
These acts of vandalism underscore the powerful and sometimes polarizing effect the painting has had on viewers throughout its history. It continues to be a central piece in discussions about Russian history, art, and the depiction of violence.
For more details on this iconic artwork, you can explore resources such as Wikiart's page on Ivan the Terrible and His Son Ivan.
