Nikita Pustosvyat. The dispute about the faith

"Nikita Pustosvyat. The dispute about the faith" is a large-format painting by Russian artist Vasily Perov, created between 1880 and 1881. Exemplifying Realism, the work captures a heated theological debate with vivid detail and expressive characters. Measuring 336.5 × 512 cm, the painting remained unfinished due to Perov's death from tuberculosis in 1882. Despite this, the composition powerfully conveys the tension and complexity of religious conflict. The canvas was acquired by Pavel Tretyakov the same year and is now part of the State Tretyakov Gallery collection. Perov’s careful Sketch and study informed the striking authenticity of the scene.