A. Mickiewicz (1824-1825) Orest Adamovich Kiprensky (1782-1836)

The drawing presents a male figure seated within an oval frame. He is depicted in profile, turned slightly towards the viewer, with a gaze directed upwards and to his left. The mans expression conveys a sense of melancholy or introspection; his brow is furrowed, and his mouth appears downturned. His hair is dark and relatively short, styled in a manner characteristic of early 19th-century fashion.
He wears what seems to be a simple tunic or shirt, layered with a loosely draped shawl or cloak that adds volume around his shoulders. A small, stringed instrument – likely a lyre – is held delicately in his left hand, positioned near his chest. The instrument’s presence suggests an association with music, poetry, and perhaps the arts generally.
The background is rendered in a sketchy style, suggesting foliage or natural surroundings. This backdrop contributes to a sense of solitude and contemplation. The artist has used shading to create depth and volume, particularly around the figures face and clothing. The oval frame itself serves to isolate the subject, emphasizing his individual character and perhaps hinting at an idealized portrayal.
Subtly, there is a suggestion of romanticism in the depiction – the melancholic expression, the connection to music, and the natural setting all contribute to this feeling. The drawing seems intended not merely as a portrait but also as a symbolic representation of artistic sensibility or intellectual depth.