Self-portrait Boris Kustodiev (1878-1927)

The composition presents a man in profile against a backdrop of a snow-covered cityscape dominated by distinctive red structures with bulbous domes. The individual is positioned centrally within the frame, his gaze directed towards the viewers left. He wears a substantial fur hat and a dark coat lined with thick fur, suggesting both warmth and a certain degree of affluence or status. A neatly trimmed mustache adorns his upper lip, contributing to an air of dignified composure.
The background is rendered in a stylized manner; the buildings are simplified into geometric forms, their red surfaces contrasting sharply with the white expanse of snow. The sky exhibits a pale blue hue, hinting at a cold, winter day. Figures can be discerned in the distance, appearing as small, indistinct shapes moving along what seems to be a thoroughfare. A wooden railing partially obscures the lower portion of the composition, creating a sense of depth and framing the subject.
The artist’s choice of clothing and setting conveys several layers of meaning. The fur-lined garments imply a connection to tradition and perhaps a certain social standing within a colder climate. The backdrop of the distinctive architecture suggests a specific cultural or geographical location – a place steeped in history and religious significance.
There is an underlying sense of introspection conveyed through the man’s posture and expression. He appears thoughtful, almost melancholic, as if contemplating the scene before him or perhaps reflecting on his own position within this historical context. The deliberate positioning against a backdrop that emphasizes both grandeur and isolation suggests a complex interplay between personal identity and cultural heritage. The overall effect is one of quiet dignity tinged with a subtle undercurrent of introspection and a profound connection to place.