Portrait of Misha Bardukov (1914) Nikolay Feshin (1881-1955)

The composition centers on a young boys head and shoulders, presented against a loosely defined background. The artist employed a technique characterized by visible brushstrokes and a limited palette dominated by earthy tones – ochres, browns, creams, and touches of red – resulting in an overall impression of warmth and immediacy.
Here we see the child’s face rendered with a degree of realism, though softened by the painterly approach. The eyes possess a certain solemnity, contrasting subtly with the delicate curve of his lips. His hair is cropped short, styled in a manner fashionable for boys of the period, and painted with quick, energetic strokes that suggest texture and movement.
The background appears almost abstract; it’s not so much depicted as suggested through layered brushwork. This lack of detail draws attention to the subjects face, emphasizing his presence within the composition. The artist seems less concerned with precise representation than with capturing a fleeting impression – a moment in time.
There is an air of quiet introspection about the boy; he doesn’t appear to be engaging directly with the viewer but rather lost in thought. This contributes to a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, as if we are privy to a private moment. The loose application of paint lends a feeling of spontaneity and informality, suggesting that this is not a formal portrait intended for public display, but perhaps a more personal study or sketch.
The overall effect is one of gentle melancholy tinged with affection. It’s likely the artist sought to convey not just a likeness, but also something of the boys character – a sense of quiet dignity and nascent intelligence.