In 1945, a portrait of the Yakut merchant Ivan Shilov was added to the museum’s collection of Russian art. The canvas was previously kept in the Yakut Museum of Local Lore.

The estate of merchants professionally engaged in trade in the 19th century was very heterogeneous.

The portrait, which is housed in the National Art Museum of the Sakha Republic, depicts Ivan Yakovlevich Shilov, a merchant of the 2nd guild and an honorary citizen. Yakut merchants cared not only about their own well-being, but also did a lot of charity work, offered patronages, and donated money to the prosperity of their towns. So did Ivan Shilov. His main legacy was the St. Nicholas Cemetery Church. Ivan Shilov himself chose a location for its construction, purchased materials, and oversaw the progress. It is believed that the merchant Ivan Yakovlevich Shilov Junior was buried “at the entrance to the church on the right side” for contributions to the church made on his behalf.

The artist who painted the “Portrait of the Merchant Ivan Shilov” undoubtedly was quite familiar with Western European art and its techniques. He sought to convey the individual characteristics of the model, and to create three-dimensional forms in reproducing spatial background and chiaroscuro modeling. A young ruddy merchant Ivan Shilov in an elegant frock and waistcoat poses sitting at a desk, on which stand various objects — the symbols of the merchant class. His posture is somewhat stiff, but also full of dignity. He has an expressive lively look in his eyes, a half-smile, and slightly messy hair. All these details reveal his character — he is a vibrant and energetic person. The portrait of Ivan Shilov, unquestionably, has a special charm; it is distinguished by a noble color palette and a sincere representation of the depicted.