Portrait of Count Pavel Stroganov (attr.) Élisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun (1755-1842)

The portrait presents a young man seated in what appears to be a formal setting. He is positioned slightly off-center, his gaze directed towards the viewers left, creating a sense of engagement and perhaps even invitation. The sitter’s posture is relaxed yet dignified; one arm rests casually on the back of an ornate chair, while the other hand gently holds his coat closed. This combination suggests both ease and authority.
The artist has employed a muted color palette dominated by browns, creams, and subtle greens. The mans attire – a dark brown overcoat with red lining, a cream-colored waistcoat, and light trousers – is rendered with careful attention to texture and detail. A white cravat is knotted at his neck, adding a touch of refinement. The red fabric draped around his shoulders provides a striking contrast against the darker tones of his coat, drawing the eye and suggesting a military or aristocratic connection.
The lighting in the painting is soft and diffused, illuminating the man’s face and highlighting the delicate contours of his features. His complexion appears fair, with rosy cheeks that suggest health and vitality. The hair is styled in loose curls, characteristic of late 18th-century fashion.
The background is deliberately understated – a dark, indistinct space that serves to isolate the figure and focus attention on him. This lack of detail contributes to a sense of intimacy and immediacy.
Subtly, there’s an air of melancholy or introspection conveyed through his expression. While he looks outward, his gaze lacks a certain warmth; it is thoughtful rather than overtly friendly. The overall impression is one of a man of privilege, perhaps burdened by responsibility or contemplating matters beyond the immediate scene. The painting seems to aim for more than just a likeness; it seeks to capture a sense of character and inner life.