Russian Art and Russian Studies at Dartmouth: Case of Ralph Sylvester Bartlett

Abstract

This article delves into the fascinating story of Ralph Sylvester Bartlett, a Dartmouth College alumnus, and his intriguing connection to Russian art and culture. Through archival research at the Hood Museum, a remarkable 1933 photograph of Bartlett in Soviet Georgia, clad in traditional attire, sparked an investigation into his life and legacy. As a scion of New England, Bartlett's journey took him from his roots in Massachusetts to the Caucasus region, where he developed a deep appreciation for Russian art and culture. This study sheds light on Bartlett's experiences, influences, and contributions to Russian studies at Dartmouth, highlighting the college's rich cultural heritage and its significance in the broader context of Russian-American relations.