Mikhail Dobroserdov

Mikhail Vladimirovich Dobroserdov (1906-1984) was a celebrated artist and revered teacher, considered a valuable representative of the Moscow School of Art. Born in the Smolensk region, he began his career as a teacher in the Far East before moving to Moscow to realize his dream of becoming an artist. He studied at the legendary Vkhutein (Higher Art and Technical Studios) from 1926 to 1930 under a roster of masters including S.V. Gerasimov and K.N. Istomin, and continued his education in 1936 in the studio of B.V. Ioganson. This extensive academic background provided the foundation for a career dedicated to the principles of Russian Realism.

As an artist and teacher, Dobroserdov believed that truth and honesty were paramount. His student, V.M. Sidor, recalls that he taught that composition was the essential starting point for any work and that beauty could be found in the most ordinary objects, from baskets and pots to a simple potato. This philosophy is evident in his paintings, which were described by his former student G. M. Korzhev as being "monochromatic and not very bright, but truly deep." In works like "View of Ermalaivko on a Winter Day," he captured the quiet, truthful essence of the Russian landscape, free of anything superficial or trendy. His art was a direct reflection of his life experience and his deep sense of artistic culture.

Dobroserdov's legacy as a master is confirmed by his numerous accolades and the prominence of his work in major collections. He was named an Honored Artist of the Russian Republic and received the Medal of Honor for his fruitful creative and teaching work. He exhibited extensively throughout the Soviet Union and abroad, with his works now held in the prestigious Tretyakov Gallery and the Russian Museum, as well as our own. For the collector, owning a painting by Dobroserdov is to acquire a work of great integrity and depth from an artist who not only mastered his craft but, as the director of the Art School for Disabled War Veterans and a lifelong teacher, dedicated his life to the selfless service of art.