Nathan Isaiovych Altman (1889 - 1970)

Nathan Isaiovych Altman

Nathan Isaiovych Altman (Russian: Натан Исаевич Альтман), a Ukrainian-born Russian and Soviet avant-garde artist, made significant contributions to Cubism, stage design, and book illustration. Born on December 22, 1889, in Vinnytsia, Ukraine, Altman's early education took place at the Odessa School of Art, followed by further studies at the Maria Vasilyeva Free Russian Academy in Paris. His diverse artistic talent extended across painting, sculpture, graphic art, and theatrical and cinema design, reflecting the dynamic spirit of the avant-garde movement.

Altman's work is recognized for its innovative approach to Cubism and for integrating avant-garde principles with traditional Jewish themes. This blend is evident in his Jewish graphic arts and his involvement in designing stage sets for the Habimah Theatre and the Jewish State Theatre in Moscow from 1920 to 1928. A notable period in his career was his participation in the Exposition Internationale des Arts Decoratifs et Industriels Modernes in Paris in 1925, showcasing his breadth in arts and design alongside contemporaries such as Aleksandra Ekster and Sonia Delaunay-Terk​​.

Altman's legacy is preserved in several prestigious collections, including the Museum of Russian Art in Erevan, Armenia, where his mixed technique works like "Still Life" are housed. His pieces reflect the avant-garde's fascination with abstract forms and bold experiments with color and composition​​. The Russian Museum's collection of Altman's work further highlights his versatility, featuring his self-portraits, the iconic "Portrait of Anna Akhmatova", and innovative designs for theatrical productions​​.

For collectors and experts in art and antiques, Altman's oeuvre offers a unique insight into the evolution of avant-garde art in the early 20th century. His works not only encapsulate the revolutionary spirit of the time but also embody the rich cultural interplay between Russian and Jewish artistic traditions.

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