Lot 3: Ivan Vladimirovich Kosmin , Russian 1882-1973 Water Spirit oil on canvas

oil on canvas

measurements 50 1/2 by 70 1/2 in. alternate measurements 128 by 179 cm

Stolitsa i Usadba, December 15, 1916, no. 72, p. 25, illustrated

PROPERTY FROM A PRIVATE COLLECTION, EUROPE
Water Spirit is a fantastical masterpiece painted in Russia during the early twentieth century. Little is known about the life of its author, Ivan Kosmin, but his geat talent is evident--the present lot recalls the romantic and dreamlike imagery of such masters as Vasily Kotarbinsky and Mikhail Vrubel. Born into a peasant family in a village outside of Moscow, Kosmin demonstrated his potential at a young age and was admitted to the prestigious Penza Art College, near Moscow, where he studied from 1906 to 1909. He then gained entrance to the St. Petersburg Academy, where he studied under Vladimir Makovsky until 1912. He consistently received high marks and glowing praise from teachers and fellow students, and in 1916 he received a gold medal for his inimitable talent.