Portraits of the 18th Century from the Family Gallery of the Galagan’s: Socio-Cultural dynamics in visual images of history

The article examines the issue of studying portraits from family galleries Ukrainian lordship 18th century as visual evidence social dynamics within this stratum. concept is based on statement that a portrait historical source represents person in aggregate personal characteristics and role. purpose to analyse reproduction socio-cultural changes experienced by Hetmanate's elite during Galagan’s collection. authors used set methods historical-anthropological historical-artistic analysis. In particular, facts real biographies representatives were correlated with images canvases. Changes choice works analysed, evolution artistic technical their performance was considered. Elements clothing materials which they are made, shape hairstyles, presence accessories taken into account. Portraits illustrate process transformation Cossack-elderly noble one show change roles family. collection eloquently attest two models behaviors top Cossacks descendants — imitation ancestral traditions borrowing lifestyle imperial aristocracy. style also mirror priorities society. Over course 50 years, transition Cossack characteristic features baroque academic canvases, combining elements rocaille, classicism, sentimentalism, romanticism, took place At same time, these demonstrate how became symbolic capital for Galagan already 19th century, contributing formation ideas about roots