The Magazine “Zolotoe runo” (1906–1909) as a Reflection of the Artistic Life of Russia at the Beginning of the 20th Century

Abstract

Purpose. The article studies the history of the magazine “Zolotoe runo” (“Golden Fleece”) that has been publishing in Moscow from 1906 till 1909. It was a project of the young art lover, millionaire N. P. Ryabushinsky, who decided to continue the mission of “miriskusniki” (members of the “World of Art” movement) and promote the aesthetic principles of symbolism, which he saw as the most promising style of art at the beginning of the 20th century.Results. Based on the analysis of the memoirs written by contemporaries, correspondence between the representatives of the Russian cultural elite, publications in the periodical press, as well as outcomes of modern research, the author argues that the magazine “Zolotoe runo”, providing its pages to outstanding writers and publishing works of iconic artists and articles about their works, became one of the most influential periodicals about art in Russia.Conclusion. This research shows that, having said a new word in art and journalism, the magazine “Zolotoe runo” became a worthy reflection of the artistic life of Russia at the beginning of the 20th century.