VI Shishkin at a meeting of the Academy of Arts Ilya Repin (1844-1930)

The drawing presents two figures in profile, rendered with a rapid and expressive charcoal technique. The dominant figure on the left occupies most of the compositions space; his age is immediately apparent through the depiction of a full beard and furrowed brow. The artist has captured a sense of gravity and perhaps weariness in this man’s features, achieved through dense hatching that defines the planes of his face and neck. The hair appears wild and unkempt, sketched with short, agitated strokes that convey texture and volume.
The second figure, positioned to the right, is less detailed and more elusive. Only a partial profile is visible, suggesting a fleeting observation or an unfinished study. This secondary presence contributes to a sense of narrative – perhaps indicating a conversation or interaction occurring within the scene. The lack of detail allows for ambiguity; this individual could be a listener, a participant in a discussion, or simply a witness to the primary figure’s demeanor.
The artists hand moves with considerable freedom and confidence. Lines are not clean or precise but rather energetic and suggestive, prioritizing feeling over meticulous representation. There is an immediacy to the work that speaks of spontaneous creation – a quick capture of a moment in time. The signature at the bottom right, executed with similar fluidity, reinforces this impression of directness and personal engagement.
The context provided – a meeting of an Academy of Arts – suggests that these are portraits of individuals involved in artistic or intellectual circles. The older man’s posture and expression might convey a sense of authority, experience, or perhaps even skepticism regarding the proceedings of the gathering. The presence of the second figure introduces a dynamic element, hinting at a complex social interaction taking place within this formal setting. Overall, the drawing conveys not just likeness but also a glimpse into the character and atmosphere surrounding these individuals.