Portrait of A. S. Pushkin. Etude Vasily Tropinin (1776-1857)

The portrait presents a man in a three-quarter view, his gaze directed slightly off-center and beyond the viewer. He is positioned against a dark, indistinct background that contributes to a sense of intimacy and focuses attention entirely on his features. The lighting is dramatic; it illuminates one side of his face while leaving the other largely in shadow, creating a chiaroscuro effect that enhances the modeling of his bone structure and lends an air of complexity to his expression.
The man’s hair is dark and thick, styled with loose curls that frame his face. A neatly tied cravat sits at his throat, contrasting with the somewhat rumpled appearance of the jacket he wears. The texture of the fabric appears roughly rendered, suggesting a focus on capturing the essence rather than meticulous detail.
His expression is difficult to definitively categorize; it conveys a mixture of pensiveness and perhaps a touch of melancholy. Theres an underlying weariness visible in his eyes, hinting at introspection or even burden. The slight downturn of his mouth contributes to this impression. It’s not a smile, nor is it overtly sorrowful, but rather a quiet contemplation that invites speculation about the subject’s inner life.
The artist employed a loose brushstroke throughout, which lends an immediacy and spontaneity to the work. This technique moves away from a polished, idealized representation towards something more akin to a study or preliminary sketch – hence the “etude” designation. The unfinished quality of certain areas – particularly in the background and parts of the jacket – further reinforces this sense of capturing a fleeting moment or impression.
The overall effect is one of psychological depth rather than superficial likeness. It’s not merely a depiction of physical appearance, but an attempt to convey something about the subjects character and state of mind. The subdued palette and dramatic lighting work together to create a mood that is both somber and compelling, suggesting a man grappling with complex thoughts or emotions.