LA Tolstoy at work at the round table Ilya Repin (1844-1930)

The drawing presents a man engaged in writing at a circular table. He is seated on what appears to be a makeshift stool or box, positioned close to the surface. The artist has rendered him with a focus on capturing his physical presence and the immediate environment of his work.
Here we see a figure characterized by age; his beard is full and graying, and lines etch themselves around his eyes and mouth, suggesting a life lived intensely. His posture conveys concentration – he leans forward slightly, his gaze fixed upon the papers spread before him. The hand holding the pen appears firm, yet relaxed, hinting at both control and ease in the act of creation.
The table itself is central to the composition. Scattered across its surface are sheets of paper, a quill pen, and what seems to be an inkwell. These objects establish the context as one of literary production. The circular shape of the table suggests a sense of inclusivity or dialogue, perhaps hinting at collaborative work or intellectual exchange.
The background is less defined, sketched with broad strokes that suggest a room filled with furniture – a chair and what might be a cabinet are discernible. This lack of detail directs attention to the central figure and his immediate task. The light source appears to come from above and slightly to the left, casting shadows that emphasize the contours of the man’s face and body.
The drawings style is characterized by loose lines and expressive shading. There is a sense of immediacy and spontaneity in the execution, as if the artist sought to capture a fleeting moment rather than create a formal portrait. The sketch suggests an intimate observation – a glimpse into the creative process of a man deeply immersed in his work.
Subtly, the arrangement conveys themes of labor, contemplation, and perhaps even solitude. The makeshift stool implies a certain informality or lack of ceremony surrounding the act of writing. The focused expression on the figure’s face suggests an internal world of thought and reflection that fuels his creative output.