Portrait of Captain A. Kostinitsa. 1,835 Karl Pavlovich Bryullov (1799-1852)

The work presents a male figure in a three-quarter pose, viewed from slightly above. He is depicted wearing a military uniform, identifiable by the epaulette on his left shoulder, adorned with gold detailing. The artist employed a watercolor technique, evident in the loose brushstrokes and translucent washes of color that define both the subject’s features and his attire.
The mans face displays a contemplative expression; his gaze is directed towards the viewer, yet seems to hold an inward focus. A neatly trimmed mustache adds to the impression of careful grooming and self-possession. The hair, dark and styled with curls, frames his face, contributing to a sense of formality appropriate for a military portrait.
The color palette is restrained, dominated by muted browns, grays, and blacks, punctuated by touches of gold on the epaulette and subtle highlights on the skin. This limited range contributes to an overall somber mood, suggesting seriousness and perhaps even melancholy. The background is largely undefined, allowing the viewer’s attention to remain fixed upon the subject.
The artists handling of light and shadow creates a sense of volume and depth, particularly noticeable in the rendering of the uniform’s folds and the contours of the face. There is an immediacy to the execution; the sketch-like quality suggests a rapid but considered observation. The visible brushwork lends a degree of informality that contrasts with the subjects formal attire, hinting at a desire to capture not just outward appearance, but also something of his character.
Subtly, the portrait conveys an impression of quiet authority and introspection. It is likely intended as more than a mere likeness; it aims to communicate aspects of the sitter’s personality and social standing within a hierarchical military structure. The lack of elaborate detail or background suggests a focus on the individuals inner life rather than external circumstances.