Evgraf Semenovich Sorokin

A painting depicting Peter the Great discovering the artist Andrey Matveyev secured the future of Evgraf Semenovich Sorokin, catching the attention of Tsar Nicholas I. This pivotal encounter at Nekrasovskoye transitioned the young painter from a local icon apprenticeship in Yaroslavl to formal training within the rigorous environment of the Imperial Academy of Arts.

Academic Training and Recognition

Entering the Imperial Academy of Arts in 1841, Sorokin studied under Alexey Tarasovich Markov. His technical proficiency earned early acclaim from the Academy Council. By 1847, he secured a gold medal for his depiction of Daniel in the lions' den. His 1849 rendering of the folk hero Ian Usmovets earned a second gold medal and a grant for international travel.

THE FREE TEST

How high is yours?

Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.

Take the IQ test →

Travels and International Exposure

Between 1851 and 1859, Sorokin undertook a series of extensive foreign tours. He resided in Spain from 1851 until 1854, producing work that remained among his most recognized. His travels further extended to Italy, where he spent time between 1855 and 1859, alongside visits to Syria, Egypt, and various locations across Western Europe.

Professional Tenure and Ecclesiastical Commissions

Upon returning to Russia in 1859, Sorokin accepted a teaching position at the Moscow School of Painting, Sculpture and Architecture, a role he maintained until his death. He achieved the title of Academician in 1861 and later attained the rank of Professor in 1878. His career involved significant religious commissions, including an iconostasis for the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral in Paris and work for the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, where he completed images initiated by Fyodor Bruni.