Portrait AM Lanskoy (q). 1815. B., um. c. 22. 5h19. 8. GRM Orest Adamovich Kiprensky (1782-1836)

Here we observe a portrait executed in black and white chalk on paper. The subject is positioned at approximately three-quarters view, her gaze directed towards the viewer with a directness that establishes immediate connection. Her expression appears thoughtful, perhaps even slightly melancholic; the subtle downturn of the mouth contributes to this impression.
The artist has rendered the woman’s features with considerable detail. Noticeable are the rounded contours of her face and neck, characteristic of prevailing beauty standards of the period. The hair is styled in a fashionable manner, swept away from the face and loosely arranged at the back, suggesting a degree of informality within the conventions of portraiture. Delicate shading around the eyes creates depth and emphasizes their luminosity.
The woman’s attire further informs our understanding of her social standing. She wears a high-necked dress with gathered sleeves, adorned with what appears to be lace or delicate embroidery at the neckline. A belt cinches the waist, highlighting the fashionable emphasis on form. The fabric is rendered with careful attention to texture and drape, suggesting an appreciation for quality materials.
The background is treated in a more generalized manner, consisting of loosely sketched vertical lines that create a sense of depth without distracting from the central figure. This simplicity serves to focus the viewer’s attention entirely on the woman herself.
Subtly, the portrait conveys a sense of quiet dignity and introspection. The absence of overt ornamentation or dramatic gestures suggests an emphasis on inner character rather than outward display. One might interpret this as a deliberate attempt to portray the subject not merely as a representation of social status but also as an individual with depth and complexity. The overall effect is one of restrained elegance, indicative of a refined sensibility and a cultivated taste.