Portrait of the artist D. D. Burliuk (D. D. Burliuk gives a lecture) (1923) Nikolay Feshin (1881-1955)

The composition presents a man in formal attire, positioned centrally within the frame. He stands before what appears to be a backdrop or screen, his right hand raised as if mid-gesture during a lecture or presentation. The figures posture conveys an air of authority and intellectual engagement. A dark hat rests on his left arm, suggesting a recent arrival or transition from another setting.
The artist’s application of paint is notably expressive; brushstrokes are visible and contribute to the overall texture and dynamism of the work. The color palette is dominated by muted greens, browns, and creams, punctuated by touches of purple in the tie and hints of gold within the background elements. This restrained use of color directs attention towards the figures face and hands, emphasizing his role as the focal point.
Behind him, a complex arrangement of shapes and forms creates an abstract environment. These forms are not easily decipherable; they seem to be suggestive rather than representational, possibly alluding to diagrams, charts, or other visual aids that might accompany a lecture. The gold tones within this backdrop introduce a sense of importance and perhaps even opulence, potentially signifying the value placed on knowledge and intellectual pursuits.
The man’s expression is somewhat ambiguous; it appears thoughtful, but also carries a hint of weariness or resignation. This complexity adds depth to his portrayal, suggesting an individual grappling with weighty ideas or facing challenges within his field. The slightly downward gaze might indicate introspection or a sense of burden.
Subtly, the painting conveys themes of intellectual labor and the role of the artist as educator or disseminator of knowledge. The formal attire suggests a professional setting, while the expressive brushwork hints at the underlying passion and creativity that drive such endeavors. The backdrop’s abstract nature implies the complexity and often elusive quality of ideas themselves. Overall, the work offers a nuanced portrait of an individual engaged in the act of imparting wisdom, tinged with a sense of personal reflection and perhaps even a touch of melancholy.