Portrait EP Rostopchina. 1822. Lithograph with Fig. Kiprensky. GRM Orest Adamovich Kiprensky (1782-1836)

The lithograph presents a three-quarter portrait of a woman seated in what appears to be a chair with a high back. The composition is straightforward; she occupies most of the frame and faces slightly towards the left of the viewer. Her gaze is directed forward, conveying an impression of quiet composure.
Here we see a carefully rendered depiction of fashionable attire from the early nineteenth century. A delicate bonnet, adorned with ribbons and floral details, sits atop her head, framing her face. The high collar of what seems to be a white blouse or chemise contrasts sharply with the dark fabric of her outer garment – likely a pelisse or similar coat. This contrast in tones contributes to the visual emphasis on her facial features.
The artist employed subtle shading techniques to suggest volume and texture, particularly noticeable in the folds of her clothing and the contours of her face. The rendering of light and shadow creates a sense of depth, preventing the image from appearing flat. A certain softness is achieved through the delicate hatching used to depict the fabric’s surface.
The womans expression is difficult to definitively interpret; it suggests a blend of reserve and perhaps a hint of melancholy. Her lips are closed, and her eyes possess an understated quality that invites speculation about her inner state. The overall effect is one of restrained elegance and quiet dignity.
Subtly, the composition hints at social standing. The refined clothing and careful presentation suggest a woman of means and position within society. The chair itself, though partially obscured, appears to be well-made, further reinforcing this impression. While the lithograph lacks color, the tonal range allows for an appreciation of the textures and details that would have been characteristic of contemporary fashion and portraiture.