Гондольер

1848–1849

Draws in the Hermitage, dreaming of the Academy

Having moved to St Petersburg and continued his studies in the mathematics faculty of the university, he applies himself to drawing within the walls of the Hermitage. Against his father's will, he dreams of entering the Imperial Academy of Arts.

1850

Leaves the university for the Academy of Arts

He leaves the university and enters the Academy of Arts, where he studies under the professor of painting Pyotr Basin. Struck by the work of Karl Bryullov, he carefully studies and copies his manner.

28 October 1856

Wedding to Anna Zabela

He marries Anna Petrovna Zabela in the Church of the Nativity of the Mother of God in the small town of Monastyrishche, Nezhin district, Chernigov Governorate.

spring 1857

Goes abroad without waiting for his stipend

In spring 1857 Ge and his wife leave the country without waiting for permission to receive the Academy's stipend, in search of space and freedom. The young artist visits Germany, Switzerland, France and Italy.

1857–1859

Meets Alexander Ivanov in Rome

Living in Rome, Ge meets Alexander Ivanov, whose work has a very deep influence on him and inspires him to paint Gospel subjects.

1860

Moves to Florence

He leaves Rome and settles in Florence, where he begins the sketch “The Death of Lambertatsia” but soon abandons it.