Vassily Maximov

Born to a peasant family in 1844, Maximov was orphaned early and first learned to paint while working in an icon-painting shop, laying the foundation for his later realistic style.¹

In 1863, he entered the Imperial Academy of Arts. The following year, he joined an 'Artel of Artists' inspired by Ivan Kramskoi, seeking new ways for artistic expression with his peers.¹

In 1864, while still at the Academy, he painted 'The Sick Child' and received a Gold Medal. This early success marked the beginning of his focus on the struggles and dramas of peasant life.¹

In 1865, he refused to compete for the Major Gold Medal, arguing that he did not need to study abroad but instead preferred to study and paint the life of the Russian village.¹

After graduation, he moved to a village in Tver, earning a living as a painting teacher for the noble Golenischev-Kutuzov family while documenting the authentic lives of peasants.¹

His 1867 painting 'Grandmother's Tales' won a prize and was purchased by the famous collector Pavel Tretyakov, establishing Maximov's reputation as a significant artist.¹

Joining the Peredvizhniki (Wanderers) in 1872, he became a core member. Ilya Repin described him as the 'uncrushable stone in the foundation' of the movement due to his steadfast dedication.¹

In his final 20 years, as realism fell out of fashion, Maximov faced severe hardship. Despite having no buyers, he continued to paint peasant scenes until his death in poverty and illness.¹