Comedies of the Old Lantern (2026) Original Oil Painting by Nikita Ostapenco

This painting was made in collaboration with my father Nikifor Swiristuhin. "Comedies of the Old Lantern," inspired by the imagery of the old commedia dell'arte. At the center of this pictorial performance are Columbine and Harlequin, united by the light of an old lantern. The lantern between them has become a symbol of the stage, memory, and time, watching over their fate. Jagged lines and rich colors convey the rhythm of street theater, the din of emotions, passion, and hidden betrayal. The houses and objects around them resemble the sets of a traveling troupe lost in the city at night. In this painting, the masks of the commedia dell'arte reflect true human emotions—love, jealousy, loneliness, and anticipation. "Comedies of the Old Lantern" is the story of Harlequin and Columbine, told through the language of color and light.

Details:

• Oil painting on Canvas
• One of a kind artwork
• Size: 100 x 125 x 3cm (unframed) / 100 x 125cm (actual image size)
• Ready to hang
• Signed on the front
• Style: Expressive and gestural
• Subject: People and portraits