Lady Konstantin Andreevich Somov (1869-1939)

Here we observe a drawing depicting a woman in what appears to be late eighteenth or early nineteenth-century attire. The figure is presented in a three-quarter pose, angled slightly towards the viewer, which allows for a clear view of her face and upper body while maintaining a sense of movement and dynamism.
The artist’s handling of line is particularly noteworthy. A loose, sketch-like quality dominates, with lines varying in thickness and pressure to suggest volume and texture. The dress itself is rendered with flowing, curvilinear strokes that convey the drape and fall of the fabric. The hat, perched atop her head, is outlined with a similar fluidity, contributing to an overall impression of lightness and grace.
The woman’s expression holds a certain gravity; her gaze is direct and unwavering, suggesting intelligence and perhaps even a touch of melancholy. Her mouth is closed, hinting at restraint or introspection. The hand holding what appears to be a sheet of paper further contributes to this sense of thoughtfulness – she seems engaged in reading or contemplation.
The drawing’s simplicity – the absence of color and the reliance on line alone – focuses attention on the figures form and character. It suggests an emphasis on capturing not just her likeness, but also something of her inner state. The sketch-like quality lends a sense of immediacy and intimacy to the work; it feels as though we are witnessing a fleeting moment in time.
The signature at the bottom left corner indicates authorship and provides a temporal anchor for the piece. It is likely intended as a study or preliminary sketch, rather than a finished artwork, which explains the unfinished quality and the focus on essential lines. The drawing’s overall effect is one of quiet dignity and understated elegance.