Unit 13: Age of Nationalism / National Art

The Struggle Over Russian Identity

From Surikov, Vasilii. "The Morning of the Execution of the Streltsy." Oil on canvas. 1881. Tretiakov Gallery, Moscow.

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The scene takes place on Red Square in front of St. Basil's cathedral, both symbols of Russian national identity. The streltsy and their families form the center of the painting--note their traditional clothes and beards, signs of their "backwardness" in Peter's eyes. Peter the Great is on his horse and gazes disdainfully at the rebellious guards. Surikov has captured the essence of Peter's reforms and their effects, while also tackling the question of Peter's methods in implementing his changes.

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