7 Lesser-Known Artworks by Aivazovsky, the Master of Marine Painting

Among the Waves by Ivan Aivazovsky I
'Among the Waves' by Ivan Aivazovsky I | © WikiCommons
Olga Glioza

Being a true genius of marine painting, Ivan Aivazovsky (1817-1900) created thousands of art works during his lifetime. The culmination of his artistic career was marked with creation of ‘Ninth Wave‘, a painting which made his art truly timeless. Here’s our round-up of lesser-known Aivazovsky artworks.

‘View of Constantinople in Moonlight’ (1846)

Ivan Aivazovsky loved travelling to Constantinople (Istanbul) – the city was mezmerising for the painter. This masterpiece was created in 1846, and gained both popularity and recognition from the first time it was exhibited. It is currently on display in the State Russian Museum in St Petersburg.

‘View of Constantinople in Moonlight’ by Ivan Aivazovsky I

‘Sea Storm at Night’ (1853)

‘Sea Storm at Night’ by Ivan Aivazovsky I

‘Venice’ (1874)

During his artistic life, Aivazovsky travelled a lot, both across Europe and America. On one of his first travels he visited Venice, which became one of the cities that inspired him throughout his life.

‘Venice’ by Ivan Aivazovsky I

‘The Wave’ (1889)

One of the most recognized and impressive paintings by Aivazovsky. The artist’s experience of taking many sea journeys meant that knew and had experienced for himself the dangerous power of the waves. There is no sun or moon in this painting – the only light to be seen comes from the stormy sky, indicating that the storm is not yet over, and the shipwreck survivors have little hope… This painting is currently exhibited in St Petersburg, alongside the famous ‘Ninth Wave’.

‘The Wave’ by Ivan Aivazovsky I

‘Morning on the Sea’ (1883)

This smaller-sized painting, in contrast with the previous one, is all full of calm morning light – the water is smooth and a new day is starting. The painting is currently exhibited in Minsk, Belarus.

‘Morning on the Sea’ by Ivan Aivazovsky I

‘Night in Gurzuf’ (1891)

On his numerous travels, Aivazovsky was impressed by the beauty of Gurzuf in Crimea. He painted its sea and shore many times – this painting shows a calm night full of moonlight.

‘Night in Gurzuf’ by Ivan Aivazovsky I

‘Among the Waves’ (1899)

This colossal painting was created by Aivazovsky in a record-breaking ten days. In some way, this master piece was a dedication to Alexander Pushkin, a great Russian poet and friend of Aivazovsky. In 1899, when the country was celebrating 100 years since was Pushkin was born, Aivazovsky was asked to contribute a painting to the exhibition held in his honour. Guided by inspiration, the artist put all his talent and skills into this masterpiece – and so the painting was born.

‘Among the Waves’ by Ivan Aivazovsky I

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Culture Trip Spring Sale

Save up to $1,100 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.

X
Edit article