Sergey Postnikov was a talented Russian painter, who lived a captivating life fr om 1826 in Moscow, Russian Empire, until his passing in 1880 in Rome, Kingdom of Italy. Notably, he was the cousin and close friend of Mikhail Botkin, another esteemed artist. Postnikov was a distinguished representative of salon academism and excelled in the creation of portraits, historical pieces, and genre paintings. His exceptional artistic contributions led to his recognition as an Academician of the Imperial Academy of Arts in 1863.

Born into a merchant family in Moscow, the exact year of Postnikov's birth remains a topic of debate among sources, with variations ranging fr om 1825 to 1838. He received his art education at the prestigious Moscow School of Painting, Sculpture, and Architecture, followed by three additional years of study (1855-1858) at the Imperial Academy of Arts. In 1859, he graduated as a non-class artist specializing in historical and portrait painting.

Sergey Postnikov's artistic journey took him to Rome, wh ere he resided and worked for five years at his own expense. It was during this period that his exceptional talent shone through, leading to his recognition as an Academician of historical painting in 1863 for his notable works, "Hector's Farewell to Andromache" and "Bacchante with Tambourine."

Throughout his career, Postnikov actively participated in numerous exhibitions, including the renowned 4th Exhibition of the Wanderers in 1875, showcasing his remarkable artistic prowess to a wider audience.

Tragically, his life's journey came to an end in Rome, wh ere he was laid to rest in the Non-Catholic Cemetery in Testaccio, leaving behind a legacy of artistic brilliance and contributions to the world of painting.