By the green lamp Nikolai Petrovich Bogdanov-Belsky (1868-1945)

The composition presents a female figure in a state of apparent repose within an opulent interior setting. She is seated on what appears to be a lavishly upholstered chaise lounge or divan, draped with rich fabrics displaying intricate patterns. The womans pose is both relaxed and slightly self-conscious; her arms are raised, framing her upper body, while her gaze meets the viewer’s directly. A string of pearls adorns her head, adding an element of aristocratic elegance to the scene. She wears a single stocking with a red garter band visible, suggesting a recent undressing or a deliberate display of intimacy.
The lighting is dominated by the soft, diffused glow emanating from a green lamp positioned behind the figure. This light casts a gentle luminescence on her skin and creates an atmosphere of subdued sensuality. The background is rendered in a blurred fashion, with indistinct floral arrangements and decorative objects contributing to a sense of luxurious indulgence. The color palette leans towards warm tones – golds, greens, and browns – which further enhance the feeling of intimacy and comfort.
Beyond the immediate depiction of a nude woman, the painting seems to explore themes of femininity, luxury, and perhaps even vulnerability. The pearls suggest wealth and status, while the partial undress hints at a private moment made public through the act of representation. Her direct gaze establishes a connection with the viewer, inviting contemplation on her identity and circumstances. The blurred background implies a world beyond this intimate space, leaving the viewer to speculate about the narrative context surrounding the figure. Theres an underlying tension between the display of beauty and the potential for exposure, creating a complex interplay of allure and fragility within the work.