Portrait of poet and playwright Alexander Petrovich Sumarokov Anton Losenko (1737-1773)

The portrait presents a man in three-quarter view, positioned centrally against a dark, indistinct background. He is depicted with a direct gaze towards the viewer, conveying a sense of self-assuredness and perhaps even challenge. The lighting emphasizes his face and upper torso, leaving the rest of his figure shrouded in shadow.
The subject’s attire suggests a position of some social standing. A richly colored velvet coat, likely blue or dark green, dominates the composition. Glimpses of an embroidered waistcoat peek out from beneath the coats lapels, indicating attention to detail and refinement. The elaborate powdered wig, typical of the period, further reinforces this impression of status and adherence to contemporary fashion.
The artist employed a restrained palette, relying primarily on dark tones punctuated by highlights on the face, hair, and waistcoat embroidery. This limited color range contributes to a somber mood while simultaneously drawing attention to the subject’s features. The brushwork appears relatively smooth, indicative of a desire for realism but also allowing for subtle gradations in tone that soften the edges and create a sense of volume.
Beyond the literal depiction, several subtexts emerge. The directness of the gaze suggests an intellectual engagement with the viewer; it is not merely a formal representation but a deliberate encounter. The slightly melancholic expression hints at a complexity beneath the surface – perhaps reflecting on the burdens or anxieties associated with his position and profession. The darkness surrounding him could symbolize the challenges inherent in artistic creation, or the weight of societal expectations. Ultimately, the portrait aims to convey not just physical likeness, but also an impression of character and intellect.