A Study of Suzdal Iconic Tradition and Folk Lacquer Painting (Focusing on Palekh)

• Main Authors: Peng-Hua Chen, 陳芃樺
• Other Authors: 馬良文
• Format: Others
• Language: zh-TW
• Published: 2008
• Online Access: http://ndltd.ncl.edu.tw/handle/14294078939684365623

碩士 === 淡江大學 === 俄羅斯研究所碩士班 === 96 === In a locality in Central Russia, on the periphery of Souzdal land there existed since 15 Century places where folk artistas produced icon paintings on the basis of the traditional works by ordained monks. Among three main areas (Ivanovo, Palekh, Mstera and Kholuy) where icon works are painted, Palekh has always been the most famous one catering for the wealthy clients. These Souzdal-type icons used to be the most widespread in pre-Revolutionary Russia. In 1922 a Palekh artist, Ivan Golikov, created a new art form being miniature painting of the lacquer box. Thus a new era of Palekh paintings began. This study investigates the historical development and social-economic background of Icon painting by folk artists which was banned in 1917 and its influence on the invention of lacquer miniature in 1922. The main conclusions of theses are as follows: 1. Lacquer miniature is closely linked with Icon painting; 2. Lacquer miniature inherits the skill and folk style of Icon painting; 3. Lacquer miniature portrays the folk content of traditional Russia; and 4. Lacquer miniature is connected to utopian thinking in Russian folk culture. As lacquer miniature is an independent art form, it originated from the tradition of icon paintings and Russian folk art. Its themes cover folk legends, scenery, folk songs, history as well as literature. In addition, it is also functional as shown in lacquer box and snuffbox which are of practical usage besides possessing artistic qualities. Interestingly, we also find that lacquer miniature have been influenced by oriental art. For example, exotic Persian Legend affects the patternn and image of lacquer miniature. In addition, traditional Bhinese nature painting also affects lacquer miniature with its multi-focal points and spiral structure to incorporate all painting context into sight. Last, but not least, utopia thinking is also built in the lacquer miniature. Palekh scenery paintings are presented as a dreamland that Russians were searching for. Palekh miniature has become the consolable as well as inspirational artistic form for its viewers.