Isaak Ilyich Levitan (1860-1900) was born in a small Lithuanian town, Kibarty, into a poor Jewish family, where his father, Ilya Abramovich Levitan, taught foreign languages.

In the late 1860s, the family moved to Moscow in search of a better life, but it was still difficult for them. His father earned a living by giving private lessons. In 1873, Isaak entered the Art School, where his talent was noticed by teachers such as Polenov, Saryan, and Perov, which significantly influenced his further education.

In 1879, at a student exhibition, his painting "Autumn Day. Sokolniki" was purchased by Tretyakov for 100 rubles. From 1880 to 1885, Levitan created famous paintings such as "Pines," "Autumn," and "First Snow," which brought him popularity. The artist particularly loved working with landscapes, reflecting his attachment to nature.

A close friend of Levitan was A.P. Chekhov, whom he met in the late 1870s and became especially close to in 1885 at the Kiselevs' estate in Babkino near Moscow. Their friendship lasted a lifetime, and Maria Chekhova, the writer's sister, became Levitan's first love.

In the late 1880s, Levitan's health deteriorated, and he went to Crimea to stay at Chekhov's dacha. He spent a year there, which positively affected his health and creativity: in the south, he created over 50 landscape works that received high praise.

At the Chekhovs', Levitan met Sofia Kuvshinnikova, to whom he taught painting. Their lessons developed into a romantic relationship.

In 1888, Levitan, along with Sofia, traveled to the Volga region, where they lived in the town of Plyos on the banks of the Volga. There he created many masterpieces, including "Old Courtyard," "Autumn. Slobodka," and "Evening. Golden Plyos."

In 1890, Levitan visited Europe for the first time, attending the World Exhibition in France and traveling to Italy, where he painted "Coast of the Mediterranean Sea" and "Spring in Italy."

In 1896, Levitan's heart problems worsened, but he continued to work actively. In 1898, the Academy of Arts awarded him the title of academician, and he began teaching at the Art School.

In late spring 1900, Levitan caught a cold that complicated his heart condition, and a month later he passed away. Unfinished paintings and numerous sketches remained in his studio. The expenses for his funeral were covered by Maria Fedorovna Morozova. His friends and students, such as V.A. Serov, A.M. Vasnetsov, K.A. Korovin, and others, came to pay their respects. He was initially buried in a Jewish cemetery near the Dorogomilovo cemetery, and later his remains were transferred to Novodevichy Cemetery.