Вигилиус ЭРИКСЕН в России 1757 1772 Портрет Екатерины II в шугае и кокошнике 1772 Холст масл часть 1 - Russian and soviet artists Русские и советские художники

The portrait presents a woman of considerable age, rendered in a formal and stately manner. She is positioned against a dark, indistinct background that emphasizes her figure and attire. The lighting is soft and diffused, highlighting the textures of her garments and illuminating her face with a gentle glow.

Here we see a subject dressed in elaborate traditional Russian clothing. A richly ornamented kokoshnik, a headdress characteristic of the period, adorns her head, embellished with pearls and what appears to be intricate metalwork. The headdress is complemented by a delicate veil that frames her face. Around her neck, a profusion of pearl necklaces cascade down her chest, layered over a garment featuring pink silk sleeves trimmed with dark fur. A similar fur collar accents the neckline of the gown.

The woman’s expression is composed and somewhat reserved; her gaze directed towards the viewer conveys an impression of authority and dignity. The artist has paid close attention to rendering the details of her face, particularly the subtle lines and wrinkles that speak to a life lived with experience. Her skin tone appears pale, suggesting a privileged lifestyle shielded from harsh elements.

The choice of traditional Russian dress is significant. It suggests an embrace of local customs and a deliberate cultivation of an image rooted in Russian identity. The opulent materials – silk, pearls, fur – underscore the subject’s wealth and status. This presentation likely served to legitimize her rule by associating her with established Russian traditions, while simultaneously projecting an aura of power and refinement.

The overall effect is one of carefully constructed grandeur; a deliberate attempt to portray the sitter as both powerful ruler and embodiment of Russian heritage. The subdued color palette and formal composition contribute to a sense of solemnity and gravitas, reinforcing the subject’s position within the hierarchy of power.