Mikhail Vrubel

Russia has a long legacy of compelling artists, but beyond the social commentaries of other artists of his era, Mikhail Vrubel stands apart. His paintings can be described as larger-than-life, personal while remaining enigmatic, confrontational without being threatening. In the Tretyakov Gallery (one of the Top 5 things to See in Moscow), they hang in a large room at the end of the walking tour through the museum--after you've seen countless Catherine the Greats painted in various poses, portraits of Pushkin the heroic poet, and vibrant works by Ilya Repin, Vrubel's paintings are a deeply moving conclusion to the impressive collection.

There is something slightly unhinged about Vrubel's paintings--the lonely demon seated in a field is a sympathetic creature rather than a fearsome one; the Swan Princess peers through white feathers, her gaze coy yet searching. For more information about Vrubel and some great commentary (along with pictures) check out Peripheral Artists from 2Blowhards.