Self-portrait Konstantin Andreevich Somov (1869-1939)

Here we observe a drawing depicting a man in a three-quarter pose, rendered primarily through graphite on paper. The subject is presented with a direct gaze towards the viewer, establishing a sense of immediate engagement. His expression appears contemplative, perhaps even slightly melancholic; the downturned corners of his mouth contribute to this impression.
The artist has emphasized certain features: a prominent mustache and neatly trimmed hair that rises in a stylized fashion from the forehead. These details suggest an attention to personal presentation and potentially a desire for distinction. The rendering of the face is characterized by a degree of realism, though softened by the medium’s inherent capacity for tonal variation and subtle shading. Lines are used both to define form and to create texture, particularly noticeable in the depiction of the hair and facial growth.
The background is left largely undefined, with only faint indications of sketched lines suggesting an absence of specific spatial context. This lack of environmental detail directs focus entirely onto the subject’s presence. The shoulders are indicated with a loose, gestural quality, implying movement or a casual posture.
Subtly, theres a sense of introspection conveyed through the portrait. The directness of the gaze and the somewhat somber expression suggest an exploration of selfhood beyond mere physical representation. The artist’s choice to depict himself in this manner – unadorned, yet carefully presented – hints at a consideration of identity and perhaps even a degree of vulnerability. The signature in the upper right corner, executed with a swiftness that mirrors the overall drawing style, reinforces the impression of an intimate, personal study.