Portrait MF Orlov. 1823 IT. K., ink, Sang. , B. 25. 2х20 TG Orest Adamovich Kiprensky (1782-1836)

The drawing presents a male figure in profile, rendered with ink and sanguine. The subject is positioned slightly off-center within the frame, his gaze directed towards the upper right quadrant. A sense of immediacy arises from the sketchs apparent spontaneity; lines are loose and expressive, suggesting a rapid execution.
Here we see a man with dark hair styled in curls that fall across his forehead and partially obscure his hairline. His facial features are characterized by a prominent nose, a defined chin, and a neatly trimmed mustache. The artist has employed hatching to create tonal variation, particularly noticeable in the shading of the face and hair, which gives them volume and depth.
The use of sanguine adds warmth to the composition, softening the starkness of the ink lines. This combination of media contributes to an overall impression of restrained elegance. The paper itself appears aged, with visible discoloration that lends a patina of history to the work.
Subtleties in the drawing suggest a contemplative mood. The subject’s posture and expression convey a quiet dignity; there is a certain reserve about him. The lack of background detail focuses attention entirely on the individual, emphasizing his presence and perhaps hinting at an introspective nature. The sketchs unfinished quality might also imply that it serves as a study or preliminary work for a larger piece, inviting speculation about the artist’s process and intentions.