Portrait of B. A. Serebriakov Zinaida Serebryakova (1884-1967)

The drawing presents a male figure in profile, his gaze directed towards the left of the composition. The subjects head is turned slightly, revealing a contemplative expression and a sense of inward focus. He appears to be wearing a collared shirt or jacket, indicated by the visible collar and the suggestion of fabric folds around the neck. A tie is loosely knotted, adding a touch of formality to his appearance.
The artist employed a technique that emphasizes rapid sketching and tonal variation. Hatching and cross-hatching are used extensively to define form and create depth, particularly in the rendering of the hair and beard. The lines are energetic and fluid, conveying a sense of immediacy and capturing the subjects likeness with a degree of informality. There is a deliberate lack of precise detail; instead, the artist prioritizes suggesting volume and texture through the interplay of light and shadow.
The figure’s posture and facial expression suggest a man burdened by thought or perhaps experiencing melancholy. The downward cast of his eyes contributes to this impression, hinting at introspection and a certain weariness. The absence of any background further isolates the subject, drawing attention solely to his psychological state.
A signature and date are inscribed in the lower right corner, providing contextual information without disrupting the overall composition. The placement of these markings feels almost incidental, as if added after the primary work was completed.

The drawing’s subdued palette – limited to shades of brown and grey – reinforces the somber mood. It evokes a sense of quiet dignity and understated emotion, suggesting a portrait intended not for public display but perhaps as a personal memento or study.