Ivan Aivazovsky is anything but a household name in modern-day America, yet in the world of seascape painting his reputation is unsurpassed. A graduate of Russia's Imperial Academy of Arts in 1835, he went on to become one of the greatest marine artists in history.
Aivazovskys "Survivors in a Stormy Sea"
Born of an Armenian family, Aivazovsky had close ties with the military and political elite of the Russian Empire and often attended military maneuvers. He was sponsored by the Imperial Family and was well regarded during his lifetime both at home and abroad.
Aivazovsky liked to keep busy, creating approximately 6,000 painting during his 60-year career. The vast majority are seascapes, but he also depicted battle scenes, Armenian themes, and portraiture. Most of Aivazovskys works are kept in Russian, Ukrainian and Armenian museums.
The celebrated career of Ivan Aivazovsky comes under the spotlight Sunday, May 17, when Lot 1893 goes under the hammer at Stanford Auctioneers' Pop Art, Fine Art, Photography, and Mexican Folk Art sale. Titled "Survivors in a Stormy Sea," this is a classic example of the artist's maritime work and is expected to fetch upwards of $80,000.
Look now at the full catalog for the Pop Art, Fine Art, Photography, and Mexican Folk Art sale.