Portrait SN Marina. 1812. Orest Adamovich Kiprensky (1782-1836)

The portrait presents a man in military attire, viewed from the chest up against a dark, indistinct background. He is positioned slightly off-center, his gaze directed towards the viewer with a subtle, almost hesitant expression. The lighting emphasizes the planes of his face, highlighting cheekbones and brow while softening the jawline, contributing to an impression of youthful refinement.
The man’s hair is styled in a fashionable manner for the period – dark, neatly curled, and swept back from the forehead. His complexion appears fair, with a hint of rosiness on the cheeks, suggesting health and vitality. The artist has paid considerable attention to rendering the texture of his skin, conveying a sense of realism.
The uniform is rendered in meticulous detail. A high-necked black coat forms the base, contrasted sharply by a vibrant red collar embroidered with elaborate gold detailing. Across his chest are visible intricate golden epaulettes and a complex arrangement of cords and chains, indicative of rank and military service. Several medals or decorations adorn the left side of his breast, further emphasizing his status.
The color palette is restrained, dominated by dark tones – black, brown, and deep red – which serve to accentuate the subject’s face and uniform. The limited range of colors contributes to a sense of formality and gravitas.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of a military officer, the portrait suggests an underlying complexity in character. The slight downward tilt of his mouth, combined with the direct but not overtly confident gaze, hints at introspection or perhaps even a touch of melancholy. It is not a portrayal of aggressive power, but rather one that conveys a sense of quiet dignity and restrained emotion. The careful rendering of details – from the texture of the skin to the intricate embroidery on the uniform – suggests an intention to capture not only outward appearance but also something of the subject’s inner life.