Portrait of M. G. Lukyanov Konstantin Andreevich Somov (1869-1939)

The composition presents a seated figure within an oval frame, immediately establishing a sense of formality and isolation. Here we see a man reclining on what appears to be a plush armchair upholstered in deep blue fabric with elaborate decorative patterns. He is dressed in a luxurious robe, predominantly gold and brown, loosely draped over a white shirt collar and tie. The robe’s texture seems rendered with considerable attention to detail, suggesting richness and comfort.
The subjects gaze is direct, almost confrontational, yet his expression remains ambiguous – a subtle blend of weariness and perhaps a touch of disdain. His posture is relaxed but controlled; one hand rests casually on the armrest while the other lies in his lap, fingers slightly curled. This positioning contributes to an impression of studied nonchalance.
The lighting is dramatic, with a strong light source illuminating the man’s face and upper body, casting deep shadows that obscure parts of the chair and background. The limited palette – dominated by gold, brown, blue, and white – enhances the sense of opulence and creates a somber mood. A framed picture hangs on the wall behind him, its subject indistinct but adding to the overall atmosphere of an intimate, private space.
The artist’s choice to depict the man in such lavish attire suggests a personage of some status or wealth. The oval format, reminiscent of portraiture from earlier periods, lends a sense of timelessness and elevates the subject beyond a mere likeness. Subtly, there is a feeling of introspection conveyed through his gaze and posture; he seems both present and distant, suggesting an individual accustomed to observation but perhaps weary of it. The overall effect is one of quiet authority combined with a hint of melancholy or world-weariness.