Vincent G. Stiepevich

Vincent G. Stiepevich

• Born: September 14, 1841, Venice, Italy
• Died: October 9, 1921, Brooklyn, New York, United States
• Occupation: Painter
• Nationality: Italian-American

Vincent G. Stiepevich (born Vincenzo G. Stiepevich) was an Italian-born American painter known for his genre scenes and works within the Orientalist movement. His career spanned the late 19th and early 20th centuries, during which he became recognized for his depictions of romanticized Eastern cultures and domestic scenes.

Early Life and Education
Stiepevich was born on September 14, 1841, in Venice, Italy, a city with a deep artistic heritage, particularly known for the Venetian School of Painting. His early artistic education took place at the Royal Academy of Venice, where he trained under Professor Carl von Blaas, a prominent historical painter from the Austrian Tyrol. Stiepevich initially found success in watercolors, winning the bronze medal in 1862 and the grand prize in 1865 for his watercolor works.

As he progressed in his career, Stiepevich began experimenting with oil painting and frescoes, focusing on the decorative arts. By 1868, he had earned a reputation as a successful decorative artist in Italy, securing several public and private commissions in Milan, where he also became a member of the Royal Academy of Milan.

Immigration to the United States
In 1872, Stiepevich received a commission to decorate the Grand Hall of the Chamber of Commerce in St. Louis, Missouri, and moved to the United States. His reputation had already preceded him, allowing him to find private patronage in the U.S. Stiepevich settled in New York City, where he exhibited at the National Academy of Design in 1877 and continued to display his works in Boston, Philadelphia, and Chicago.

He became known for his genre scenes, including romanticized depictions of Eastern life and women in opulent settings, hallmarks of the Orientalist movement. His detailed compositions, rich color palette, and careful attention to texture and light made his works popular with collectors.

Artistic Style and Influence
Stiepevich's style was heavily influenced by his Venetian background, particularly the Venetian School's emphasis on color and decoration. Venice, with its historical ties to Eastern trade, had long been a center of cultural exchange, and this is reflected in Stiepevich's choice of Orientalist themes. His works often depicted exotic scenes from North Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, showcasing rich textiles, architecture, and figures.

Stiepevich's ability to suggest a narrative in his paintings without directly telling a story allowed viewers to engage with his works on a personal level. His paintings were praised for their graceful compositions and picturesque character, which made them adaptable for both galleries and private homes.

Personal Life
Stiepevich was married to Francesca C. Stiepevich, with whom he had two daughters: Ada M. Bailey (Stiepevich) and Rose Mary Sondermann (Stiepevich). After the death of his wife, Stiepevich lived with his daughter Ada and her family in Brooklyn, New York.

Later Years and Death
Stiepevich passed away on October 9, 1921, at the age of 80, from chronic interstitial nephritis and bronchitis. At the time of his death, he was living at 144 Woodruff Avenue, Brooklyn, with his daughter’s family. He was buried in Linden Hill Cemetery in New York.

Legacy
Though not as widely known today, Vincent G. Stiepevich's works continue to be valued for their technical skill and contributions to the Orientalist genre. His paintings remain in circulation in art auctions and private collections, where they are appreciated for their richness in color and exotic themes. Stiepevich’s career reflects the broader European fascination with the East during the 19th century, and his Venetian training provided a strong foundation for his exploration of these romanticized depictions.

References:

• Death Certificate of Vincent G. Stiepevich
• "The School of Venice" by Alfred Trumble and Vincent G. Stiepevich, The Monthly Illustrator (1 Jan 1895)​(Trumble-SchoolVenice-18…) ISSN 2151-4348
• Art Renewal Center, Biography of Vincent G. Stiepevich
• https://www.familysearch.org/tree/person/details/9487-S1Y