Portrait of Prince Ivan Gagarin 1811 H., M. 80h69 RM Orest Adamovich Kiprensky (1782-1836)

The portrait presents a man seated in profile, turned slightly towards the viewer. He is depicted from the chest upwards, occupying most of the frame. The composition emphasizes his face and upper body, creating a sense of intimacy and directness.
Here we see a gentleman dressed in what appears to be a dark green velvet coat with a high collar and a thick fur trimming. The texture of the fabric is rendered with considerable attention to detail, suggesting an appreciation for luxury and status. A crisp white shirt peeks out from beneath the coats collar, providing a contrast that highlights the man’s face.
The artist has employed a muted color palette dominated by greens, browns, and creams. The background is indistinct, blurred into a warm, hazy tone which serves to isolate the figure and draw attention to his features. Light falls predominantly on the left side of his face, illuminating his skin and emphasizing the contours of his cheekbones and jawline. This lighting creates subtle shadows that add depth and realism to the portrayal.
The man’s expression is somewhat enigmatic; he appears thoughtful, perhaps even melancholic. His gaze is directed slightly downwards, suggesting introspection or a quiet dignity. The hair is dark, neatly styled, and receding from his forehead, a common fashion of the period.
Subtly, the painting conveys an impression of restrained elegance and understated power. The fur trimming on the coat hints at wealth and privilege, while the man’s posture and expression suggest a certain seriousness and intellectual depth. The lack of overt ornamentation or dramatic gesture contributes to a sense of quiet self-assurance. It is likely that the portrait was intended not only as a likeness but also as an indication of character and social standing.