Portrait EM Khitrova. 1816-17 BA, um. c. 38h32. GMF, M Orest Adamovich Kiprensky (1782-1836)

The drawing presents a bust-length portrait of a woman in profile, angled slightly towards the viewer. The artist has rendered her with considerable attention to detail, particularly regarding facial features and hair arrangement. Here we see a woman of apparent middle age, possessing a somewhat melancholic expression. Her gaze is directed upwards and to the left, suggesting introspection or perhaps a momentary distraction.
The rendering of light and shadow contributes significantly to the overall mood. The face is illuminated from an unseen source, highlighting the contours of her cheekbones and chin while casting deeper shadows beneath her eyes and along the side of her nose. This interplay creates a sense of depth and volume, lending realism to the depiction.
Her hair is styled in loose curls framing her face, a fashionable arrangement for the period suggested by the date range (1816-17). A simple garment drapes across her shoulders, its texture indicated through subtle hatching and cross-hatching techniques. The fabric’s folds add visual interest and further define the form of her body.
The artists choice to depict the woman in a three-quarter profile allows for a glimpse of her neck and shoulder, revealing a delicate lace detail at the collar. This element introduces an air of refinement and suggests a certain social standing. The overall impression is one of quiet dignity and perhaps a hint of underlying sadness or contemplation.
Subtly, the drawing conveys a sense of intimacy. The close-up framing focuses attention on the woman’s face, inviting the viewer to engage with her emotional state. Its possible that the upward gaze signifies aspiration or longing, while the slight downturn of her mouth hints at a quiet sorrow. The absence of any background further isolates the subject, emphasizing her individual presence and encouraging a more personal connection from the observer.