14.12.1850 – 02.03.1929

Nikolai Kuznetsov – Russian portrait and genre painter, one of the founding fathers of the society of South Russian artists, participant of international exhibitions and the Paris salons, the owner of a magnificent collection of paintings and a Chevalier of the Legion of honor.

The artist was born in 1850 in the province of Kherson, raised and studied in high school, but scientific subjects were not interested in him. The mother, seeing in his son the ability to draw, took the boy to Odessa to artist Mallman, who was a friend of Kuznetsov family. He was one of the best teachers of the Odessa drawing school, and the young Nicholas began to learn the skills of a master. The teacher fascinated the young artist with his stories about famous painters. Kuznetsov showed a great ability, but still was far from thinking to finally devote himself to art.

Over time and because of social requirements needed to make a final decision about their profession. Then Nikolay Dmitriyevich decided to go to Petersburg to enter the guards. But by chance instead of a guard, he entered the Academy of fine arts.

At the Academy, studying with Professor Chistyakov at the outset Nikolay Kuznetsov has demonstrated remarkable ability. His first pictures appeared at the ninth traveling exhibition in 1881, and immediately drew the attention of the public and critics. Works of the painter became popular, talked about them, interested in them, and none of the travelling exhibition was not without its paintings and portraits.
In 1880-1890-ies the artist positioned himself as a portrait painter. Posed for the artist’s relatives and friends.
The venerable artist – recognized authority in matters of art, he enjoyed universal respect and sympathy. Was friends with Vasnetsov, Polenov, Arkhip Kuindzhi and Repin. The latter even wrote a few portraits Kuznetsova.

In 1920 the artist moved abroad. The last years of his life were spent in exile in Yugoslavia, where he continued to paint, in most cases painted portraits to order.

Died Nikolai Kuznetsov in 1929 in Sarajevo.