Self-portrait. Late 1840s Pavel Fedotov (1815-1852)

Here we observe a graphite drawing depicting a man in a three-quarter pose, his gaze directed towards the upper left corner of the composition. The artist has rendered the subject with a palpable sense of introspection and perhaps even melancholy. The head is turned slightly away from the viewer, creating an impression of guardedness or withdrawal.
The facial features are sharply defined, emphasizing a prominent brow ridge, a strong nose, and a tightly compressed mouth. These details contribute to an overall expression that suggests seriousness and intensity. A short beard and mustache further accentuate the man’s rugged appearance. The hair is rendered with quick, energetic strokes, suggesting volume and texture while also contributing to the drawings dynamic quality.
The artist employed varying degrees of pressure in applying the graphite, creating a range of tonal values from deep blacks to light grays. This technique lends depth and dimension to the face, highlighting certain features while softening others. The hand is positioned near the forehead, subtly suggesting contemplation or fatigue; it’s a gesture that speaks volumes about an internal state.
The background is minimally defined, consisting primarily of lightly sketched lines that evoke a sense of space without providing specific details. This lack of environmental context directs the viewers attention squarely onto the subject and his emotional condition. The signature at the bottom right corner, executed in a cursive script, provides a personal mark within the work.
The drawing conveys an atmosphere of quiet reflection and perhaps even a degree of inner turmoil. It is not merely a likeness but rather a psychological portrait that offers insight into the sitter’s character and emotional landscape. The artists skill lies in capturing not just physical appearance, but also the intangible qualities of personality and mood through the expressive use of graphite.