Portrait of N.A. Rimsky-Korsakov (1920s) Nikolay Feshin (1881-1955)

The portrait presents a man in profile, viewed from approximately three-quarters angle. He is depicted with a full beard and mustache, both rendered in thick, textured brushstrokes that suggest volume and age. Spectacles rest upon his nose, partially obscuring the upper portion of his face and contributing to an impression of intellectual contemplation. The sitter’s gaze appears directed downwards, suggesting introspection or perhaps weariness.
The artist employed a muted palette dominated by earthy tones – ochres, browns, and grays – which contribute to a somber and introspective mood. Light falls primarily from the left, illuminating the mans face and beard while leaving the background in relative shadow. This contrast emphasizes his presence and draws attention to his features. The background itself is indistinct, composed of loosely applied brushwork that evokes a sense of depth without offering specific details. It appears as if he’s situated within an interior space, but its nature remains ambiguous.
The handling of paint is characteristic of an impressionistic style; the strokes are visible and expressive, prioritizing texture and atmosphere over precise representation. The artist seems less concerned with photographic accuracy than with conveying a sense of character and psychological depth.
Subtly, there’s a feeling of melancholy conveyed through the sitters posture and expression. The downward gaze, combined with the muted colors and loose brushwork, suggests a man burdened by thought or experience. It is not an image of triumph or exuberance; rather, it portrays a figure marked by time and reflection. The overall effect is one of quiet dignity and profound introspection.