Alexander Mikhailov

Painter, graphic artist. Born in Nizhny Novgorod in the family of a self-taught artist and serf of Prince Nikolai Shakhovskoi called Stepan Mikhailov and his actress wife (1818). Awarded his freedom (1838) and travelled to St Petersburg at the expense of Alexei Zubov (1798–1864), director of the St Macarius Fair in Nizhny Novgorod (1839). Studied under Karl Brullov at the Imperial Academy of Arts (1839–43). Awarded two minor silver medals (1840, 1841) and the title of non-class artist (1843). Nominated to the Imperial Academy of Arts (1849). Painted portraits (1840s) and genre scenes (1850s). Died in St Petersburg (1860). Contributed to exhibitions (from 1840s). Contributed to the exhibitions of the Imperial Academy of Arts (1840s) and Play and Passion in Russian Fine Art at the Russian Museum in St Petersburg (1999–2000).