Portrait of Lieutenant P.E. Lvov Pavel Fedotov (1815-1852)

Here we observe a drawing depicting a man in military attire seated comfortably within what appears to be a domestic setting. The subject is rendered in graphite with considerable attention paid to detail, particularly regarding the elaborate ornamentation of his uniform. He wears a double-breasted coat adorned with epaulettes and various insignia, suggesting a position of some rank within the armed forces. His posture is relaxed; one arm rests casually on the chair’s backrest, while the other holds what seems to be a small box or packet resting on his lap.
The mans facial expression conveys an air of quiet confidence, with a slight upward curve to his lips suggesting a subtle amusement or perhaps a reserved sense of humor. His mustache is neatly trimmed and contributes to a cultivated appearance. The artist has captured the texture of his hair and clothing through careful shading, lending depth and realism to the portrayal.
At the subject’s feet sits a dog, likely a hound breed given its characteristic ears and build. Its presence introduces an element of domesticity and companionship into the composition, softening the formality suggested by the military uniform. The box held in the mans lap is intriguing; it could contain personal correspondence, mementos, or perhaps official documents, hinting at a life balancing duty and private matters.
The drawing’s overall tone suggests an attempt to portray not merely a soldier but also a man of character – someone who embodies both professional responsibility and personal refinement. The artists choice to depict the subject in a relaxed pose within a comfortable setting implies a desire to reveal aspects of his personality beyond his military role, suggesting a contemplative nature or perhaps a moment of respite from duty. The inclusion of the dog further reinforces this sense of domesticity and underscores the individual’s connection to personal life outside of professional obligations.