 |
Vasilij Demut-MalinovskijRussian sculptor
Date of Birth: 02.03.1779
Country:  Russia |
Content:
- Early Life and Studies
- Academic Success
- Further Training and Recognition
- Artistic Journey in Italy
- Return and Professional Accomplishments
- Artistic Legacy
- Notable Works
- Monument to Field Marshal Prince Barclay de Tolly in Yuriev
Early Life and Studies
Vasily Ivanovich Demut-Malinovsky, born in St. Petersburg on March 2, 1779, was the son of a woodcarver. At the tender age of six, he enrolled as a student at the Imperial Academy of Arts.
Academic Success
Throughout his studies, Demut-Malinovsky excelled, earning two silver medals for modeling from life (1798 and 1799) and a minor gold medal in 1800 for his bas-relief titled "An Angel Leading the Apostle Peter out of Prison." Upon completing his coursework in 1800, he was awarded the title of artist of the 14th class and a major gold medal for his contribution to the bas-reliefs gracing the monument to Peter the Great in St. Petersburg.
Further Training and Recognition
For two years following his graduation, Demut-Malinovsky remained at the Academy as a pensioner. During this time, he participated in a competition organized by Count A.S. Stroganov, which resulted in the creation of a sketch for a monument to Professor Kozlovsky. This work earned him another major gold medal.
Artistic Journey in Italy
In 1803, driven by a desire to refine his skills, Demut-Malinovsky traveled to Italy. Under the guidance of renowned sculptor Antonio Canova, he crafted notable works such as the bas-relief "Hercules and Omphale," the statue "Narcissus Gazing into the Water," and various busts.
Return and Professional Accomplishments
Summoned back to St. Petersburg in 1807 to create sculptures for the Stock Exchange and the Kazan Cathedral, Demut-Malinovsky rapidly gained recognition as an academician. His exceptional abilities led to his appointment as adjunct professor in 1808, professor in 1813, and заслуженный профессор ("honored professor") in 1833. In 1836, he assumed the role of rector of the Academy's sculpture department.
Artistic Legacy
Demut-Malinovsky passed away in 1846, leaving an enduring mark on the history of Russian art. His remarkable talent and adherence to natural forms distinguished him from his contemporaries, who often succumbed to the prevailing pseudo-classical style. Moreover, he played a pivotal role in mentoring a generation of Russian sculptors who followed in his footsteps.
Notable Works
Among Demut-Malinovsky's most celebrated creations were:Colossal statues of the Prophet Elijah and Apostle Andrew the First-Called for the Kazan Cathedral in St. Petersburg
Monument to Field Marshal Prince Barclay de Tolly in Yuriev
Statue of "Russian Scaevola" at the Academy of Arts (considered his masterpiece)
Allegorical groups decorating the façade of the St. Petersburg Stock Exchange
Sculpture adorning the Admiralty building (collaborated with S. Pimenov and A. Anisimov)
Bas-reliefs depicting four Victories and the personifications of the Neva and Volga rivers for the pedestal of the Alexander Column
Bas-reliefs and evangelist figures for the Academy of Arts' house church
Busts of Field Marshal Suvorov, Prince Kutuzov-Smolensky, and playwright V.A. Ozerov
