Monument to Leo Tolstoy on Prechistenka

The Tolstoy monument at 11 Prechistenka Street is a granite sculpture portraying the writer standing with his head slightly tilted and hands resting at his sides. The red coarse stone work occupies a prominent location in central Moscow.

Sculptor Sergey Merkurov created the work in 1913, drawing upon a death mask he had made of Tolstoy in 1910. The sculpture represents early 20th-century Russian artistic approaches before the revolution.

The sculpture depicts Tolstoy in a contemplative pose that immediately connects visitors with the famous writer. The monument functions as a focal point for those seeking to engage with Russian literary heritage in the city.

The monument is easily accessible and located near other cultural institutions in central Moscow. The area benefits from good public transport links and walkable streets.

Merkurov employed an actual death mask as an artistic tool, giving the sculpture a documentary quality unusual for its time. This approach ensured the portrait captured precise facial features.

Location: Khamovniki District

Inception: 1926

Part of: Leo Tolstoy State Museum

GPS coordinates: 55.74266,37.59690

Latest update: December 9, 2025 12:23