A man's head, in the turn of a shivering head putting on a shirt Alexander Ivanov (1806-1858)

The painting presents a male figure in profile, his gaze directed towards something beyond the frames boundary. The subject is depicted at a moment of apparent vulnerability and transition; he appears to be in the process of dressing, as suggested by the partially visible shoulder and the implication of an action just completed or about to begin.
The artist’s attention focuses on capturing the physicality of the man. His skin tone exhibits variations – a flush across his cheeks and neck contrasts with a pallor elsewhere – suggesting both vitality and perhaps discomfort or anxiety. The rendering of the hair is particularly noteworthy; thick, dark curls cascade around his face and shoulders, adding to an overall impression of untamedness. A dense beard further emphasizes this sense of ruggedness.
The lighting contributes significantly to the painting’s mood. It illuminates the mans face from a side angle, creating strong contrasts between light and shadow that accentuate the contours of his features. This chiaroscuro effect draws attention to the intensity in his eyes and the slight downturn of his mouth, hinting at an internal state beyond simple observation.
The background is deliberately understated – a muted, indistinct expanse of color that serves only to isolate the figure and intensify the focus on his expression and posture. The limited palette reinforces a sense of introspection and restraint.
Subtly, the painting evokes themes of self-discovery or transformation. The act of putting on clothing can be interpreted as symbolic of assuming a role or presenting oneself to the world. However, the man’s hesitant gaze and slightly tense posture suggest an underlying uncertainty or apprehension about this process. He is not merely dressing; he seems to be confronting something within himself. The shivering implied in the title adds another layer – a physical manifestation of emotional unease or vulnerability.