Portrait of F. K. Sologub Konstantin Andreevich Somov (1869-1939)

The drawing presents a mans head and shoulders in a formal pose. The subject is rendered with a muted palette primarily consisting of browns, creams, and grays, lending a somber quality to the work. He appears middle-aged, characterized by a receding hairline and a baldness that emphasizes his forehead. His eyes are directed forward, conveying an impression of intense scrutiny or perhaps introspection. A slight downturn of the mouth suggests melancholy or pensiveness.
The artist employed a technique that blends precise detailing with looser, more expressive strokes. The facial features – the nose, lips, and eyebrows – are delineated with careful attention to form, while the hair and background are suggested through a flurry of short, textured lines. This contrast creates a sense of depth and volume, drawing focus to the man’s face.
The subjects attire – a collared shirt and tie – indicates a position of some authority or intellectual standing. The tie is rendered with particular detail, its pattern adding a subtle visual complexity. A small blemish on his chin draws attention to an imperfection, potentially suggesting vulnerability or humanity beneath the formal presentation.
Subtly, theres a sense of psychological weight conveyed through the subject’s gaze and the overall tonal restraint. The lack of vibrant color contributes to a feeling of seriousness and perhaps even isolation. It is not merely a likeness; it seems intended to capture something of the man’s inner state – a quiet intensity or a burden of thought. The drawing suggests an individual marked by intellect, experience, and a certain degree of melancholy.