Portrait of Zinaida Gippius Ilya Repin (1844-1930)

The drawing presents a bust-length depiction of a woman facing forward. The artist employed charcoal with considerable expressive freedom, resulting in a textured surface and a sense of immediacy. A dark garment drapes over her shoulders, its folds rendered with loose, energetic strokes that contribute to the overall dynamism of the composition. Her hair is voluminous and loosely arranged, cascading around her face and neck in a manner that softens the contours while also suggesting a certain untamed quality.
The woman’s gaze is direct and unwavering; it holds an intensity that draws the viewers attention. The eyes are rendered with careful detail, conveying a sense of introspection or perhaps even melancholy. Her mouth is closed, but the subtle curve suggests a restrained emotion.
The artist has chosen to minimize background details, focusing entirely on the figure’s presence and character. This concentration directs our focus towards her expression and demeanor. The tonal range is limited, primarily consisting of shades of gray, which contributes to a somber and contemplative atmosphere.
A signature and date (1897, 20 Сен.) are inscribed at the bottom left corner, providing contextual information about the work’s creation. The script itself possesses a certain elegance that mirrors the subjects perceived refinement.
Subtly, there is an impression of intellectual depth conveyed through her posture and expression. The drawing seems to suggest not merely a likeness but also an attempt to capture something of the sitter’s inner life – a sense of quiet strength and perhaps a touch of world-weariness.