Portrait of the Abbot Skarpellini. 1819-21. B., um. c. 22, 3h18, 6. GRM Orest Adamovich Kiprensky (1782-1836)

The drawing presents a man in a formal pose, viewed from the chest up. He is depicted with a direct gaze towards the viewer, conveying a sense of solemnity and perhaps even introspection. The artist employed a technique that emphasizes texture through dense hatching; this creates a palpable surface quality across both the figure’s face and his clothing.
The mans hair is receding, revealing a broad forehead, which contributes to an impression of intellectualism or age. His features are rendered with careful attention to detail – the subtle curve of his lips, the slight furrowing around his eyes – suggesting a complex inner life. The folds in his dark coat are indicated by parallel lines that follow the contours of the fabric, adding volume and depth.
The crossed arms suggest a defensive posture or perhaps a deliberate attempt at self-containment. This gesture could be interpreted as an indication of authority, restraint, or even weariness. The overall effect is one of dignified composure, but also hints at underlying complexities. Theres a certain austerity to the presentation; it’s not overtly flattering, instead aiming for a realistic and psychologically nuanced portrayal.
The monochrome palette contributes to this sense of gravity and timelessness. It allows the artist to focus on form, texture, and tonal variations rather than coloristic effects. The drawing feels like a study – a preliminary exploration of character that prioritizes observation over embellishment.