On October 31 in Brussels, as part of the With Russian Roots project by the Russian House, an evening was dedicated to one of Russia’s most renowned families—the Tolstoy family. Attendees included members of various branches of the Tolstoy lineage living in Europe, including descendants of the writer himself: his great-grandson Dimitry Tolstoï , president of the Friends of Leo Tolstoy Society, and great-granddaughter Sonia Tolstoï, artist (France), as well as Marina Tolstoy, former president of the Foundation for the Preservation of the Russian Heritage in the European Union, and journalist Gregory Tolstoï (Belgium). According to Russian House director V. Bunina, such evenings have become a cherished tradition, introducing contemporary audiences in Belgium and Europe to the creative and intellectual legacy of well-known Russian families.
‘I am very pleased to see the continuation of this wonderful project at the Russian House in Brussels, where members of prominent Russian families share their personal impressions and memories,’ said Russian Ambassador to Belgium Alexander Tokovinin. ‘This initiative emphasizes the continuity of Russian culture and tradition, regardless of where Russian people and descendants of Russian emigrants live. It serves as a reminder that the concept of the Russian World—despite ongoing debates about its meaning—is fundamentally the unity of Russian culture and its contributions to world culture, upholding ideals and traditions that have shaped it.’
He also highlighted, ‘The exhibition dedicated to Yasnaya Polyana, now on display at the Russian House, is a beautiful testament to these principles. The unique atmosphere of Russian culture, perception, and worldview lives on, regardless of where its bearers reside.’
Attendees were introduced to a rich collection of over 70 paintings by artists Sonia Tolstoï and Anne Lefol, inspired by Yasnaya Polyana—a place of deep significance for the family of the famed writer. Strolling along the same paths once walked by Sonia’s illustrious ancestor, the artists found inspiration to create a series of works reflecting the landscapes that surrounded Tolstoy and his family. Despite the different styles of the artists, the collection forms a cohesive whole, full of philosophical reflections and bright associations.
The sense of immersion in the atmosphere of Yasnaya Polyana created by the exhibition was complemented by Marina Mikhailovna Tolstoy’s commentary, representing the Belgian branch of the famous family.
The “Association of Friends of Leo Tolstoy” was founded in 1977 by the writer’s grandson, Dr. Sergei Tolstoï, to commemorate the 150th anniversary of his birth. The society is currently headed by his son Dimitry, who presented this magnificent exhibition in Brussels.
Leo Nikolaevich Tolstoy, his wife Sophia Andreevna, and many of their children were proficient musicians who even composed music. This love of music was passed down to their youngest son, Mikhail, whose talented descendants—though in different fields—performed at the Russian House in Brussels.
The vernissage “Landscapes of Yasnaya Polyana in the World of Leo Tolstoy” concluded on a musical note, with a classical concert performed by young Russian musicians, graduates and students of the Royal Conservatory of Brussels. The evening featured talented young musicians—laureates of international competitions: Mark Yakovlev (flute), Maria Ryabinina (piano), and Sultan Rakhmatullin (violin).
Their program included works by distinguished Russian and Belgian composers such as P. I. Tchaikovsky, S. V. Rachmaninoff, D. D. Shostakovich, S. S. Prokofiev, and E. Ysaye, immersing the audience in a cultural dialogue and musical mastery.
The exhibition “Landscapes of Yasnaya Polyana in the World of Leo Tolstoy” will be open until December 12
We invite everyone to discover the remarkable works of artists Sonia Tolstoï and Anne Lefol
Free access
Mon-Fri 10:00-12:00 and 15:00-16:00
Open also during the Russian House events, see our program here
