blind musician. 1809 figure. GRM Orest Adamovich Kiprensky (1782-1836)

The drawing presents a man engaged in playing a wind instrument, likely a flute or recorder. He is depicted from the chest upwards, turned slightly towards the viewer. The artist employed a technique that emphasizes texture and movement through dense hatching and cross-hatching, creating a sense of immediacy and raw observation.
Here we see an individual with a weathered face; his expression appears concentrated, perhaps even strained, as he focuses on producing music. His eyes are partially closed, suggesting deep immersion in the act of playing or possibly a physical discomfort associated with it. The hair is rendered with quick, energetic strokes, conveying a sense of untidiness and contributing to the overall impression of a man accustomed to hardship.
The clothing – a double-breasted coat – suggests a working-class background, though its precise style places it within a specific historical context. The instrument itself occupies a significant portion of the composition, drawing attention to the source of his livelihood and artistic expression. His fingers are carefully depicted as they cover the holes of the flute, demonstrating an understanding of the mechanics involved in creating music.
Subtleties within the work hint at deeper narratives. The man’s posture suggests both vulnerability and resilience. He is reliant on his skill to survive, yet he maintains a dignity that transcends his circumstances. The blurred background contributes to this sense of isolation; it does not offer any contextual clues about his surroundings, focusing instead entirely on the individual and his craft.
The date inscribed at the bottom left corner – 1809 – provides a temporal anchor, situating the work within the early nineteenth century. This period was marked by significant social and political upheaval in Europe, which may inform interpretations of the man’s circumstances as indicative of broader societal issues concerning poverty, disability, and artistic labor. The drawings overall effect is one of quiet contemplation, inviting viewers to consider the life and experiences of a person often marginalized within society.