Portrait of A.N. Maykov (1821-1897) Vasily Perov (1833-1882)

The portrait presents a man seated, positioned centrally within the composition. He is depicted from the chest upwards, facing directly toward the viewer with a measured gaze. The artist has rendered him in formal attire: a dark suit jacket over a waistcoat and shirt adorned with a bow tie. A neatly trimmed beard and mustache dominate his lower face, contributing to an overall impression of maturity and gravitas. Spectacles rest upon his nose, subtly suggesting intellectual pursuits or scholarly inclinations.
The man holds a book in his hands, the pages slightly parted as if he has just paused from reading or is about to resume. A chain hangs from his waistcoat, likely connected to a pocket watch or other personal item – a detail that hints at a sense of routine and established status.
The background is a muted, dark burgundy color, applied with visible brushstrokes that create a textural depth without distracting from the figure. The lighting is carefully controlled; it illuminates the man’s face and upper body, highlighting his features while leaving portions of his clothing in shadow. This creates a sense of three-dimensionality and emphasizes the solemnity of the subject.
The overall effect is one of dignified restraint. Theres an air of quiet contemplation about him, suggesting a thoughtful and introspective nature. The direct gaze establishes a connection with the viewer, inviting scrutiny and perhaps prompting reflection on the man’s character or profession. The book serves as a clear symbol of intellect and learning, reinforcing this impression. The subdued color palette and formal pose contribute to an atmosphere of seriousness and respectability, suggesting that the portrait was intended to convey not only physical likeness but also a sense of the subjects inner qualities and social standing.