The Knight of Beauty: The Life and Vision of Vasily Polenov Vasily Dmitrievich Polenov (1844–1927) stands as a cornerstone figure in Russian landscape painting and the Peredvizhniki movement—a collective of realist artists who championed artistic freedom and social reform. Often dubbed “the Knight of Beauty,” Polenov embodied both European artistic sensibilities and deep roots within Russian culture, reflecting a vision where art served not merely for aesthetic pleasure but actively fostered happiness and moral upliftment. As he eloquently stated, "Art should promote happiness and joy," enca…