Nikolai Smirnov is the truly unique artist. The art historian by education, he became to work as the professional painter at the age of 39. He created his own way in the art - the so-called historical still life or, according to the painter's definition, "the historical theatre of the things". He worked as the painter comparatively not long - just more than twenty five years. For these years he had time to create the works which acquired the world recognition and instantly turned into the object of collection. This film will introduce you to the world of Nikolay Smirnov.