VI Kozlov. Lithograph after a drawing by O. Kiprensky. 1940 Orest Adamovich Kiprensky (1782-1836)

The lithograph presents a portrait in profile, executed with considerable attention to detail and tonal variation. Here we see a man depicted from the chest upwards, his gaze directed towards an unseen point beyond the frames edge. The artist has rendered him with a youthful appearance; the face is characterized by a strong jawline, a straight nose, and a thoughtful expression. His hair, styled in a manner typical of the early 19th century, is meticulously shaded to suggest volume and texture. A high-necked shirt or cravat frames his neck and chest, adding a touch of formality to the composition.
The lithographic technique lends itself well to capturing subtle gradations of light and shadow, which contribute significantly to the portrait’s depth and realism. The artist has employed cross-hatching and stippling to create a sense of texture on the mans skin and clothing. A dark background serves to isolate the figure, drawing attention to his features and emphasizing his presence within the composition.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of an individual, the portrait carries certain subtexts related to status and intellect. The formal attire suggests a person of some social standing or profession – perhaps an academic or government official. The man’s contemplative pose implies introspection and perhaps even a degree of melancholy. His profile view, traditionally associated with depictions of nobility and intellectualism, further reinforces this impression.
The inscription at the bottom indicates that it is a lithograph produced in 1940 based on an earlier drawing. This layering of artistic creation – the original drawing by one artist, followed by its reproduction through lithography – adds another layer to the work’s meaning. It suggests a desire to preserve and disseminate the image of this individual, indicating his importance or significance within a particular historical context. The act of reproducing a portrait in 1940, during a period of significant political upheaval, might also imply a deliberate attempt to connect with the past and evoke certain values associated with an earlier era.