Nikanor Chernetsov was a Russian painter born in 1805 in the town of Kineshma, located in the Yaroslavl Province. He studied painting at the Imperial Academy of Arts in St. Petersburg, where he excelled in portrait painting. His early works were influenced by classicism, which was the dominant style of the time.

After completing his studies in 1830, Chernetsov worked as a portrait painter, receiving commissions from wealthy clients. He also painted historical and genre scenes, depicting everyday life and customs of the Russian people. In 1841, he became a professor at the Imperial Academy of Arts, where he taught until his retirement in 1870.

Chernetsov's works were widely exhibited in Russia and Europe, receiving critical acclaim for their technical skill and realism. He was particularly admired for his ability to capture the individuality and character of his sitters in his portraits. Chernetsov's legacy continues to be celebrated in Russia, where his works are held in many museums and collections.