Portrait of Ivan Krylov Aleksander Orlowski (1777-1832)

The drawing presents a man in profile, facing left. He is depicted from the chest up, and his gaze is directed forward, conveying a sense of introspection or perhaps mild melancholy. The artist employed charcoal with evident spontaneity; the lines are loose and energetic, contributing to an overall impression of immediacy.
Here we see a substantial build, emphasized by the broad shoulders and rounded form of the face. The hair, rendered in quick, swirling strokes, frames the head and falls forward, partially obscuring the ear. A high collar is visible around the neck, suggesting formal attire. The artist’s attention seems primarily focused on capturing the mans facial features – the slightly drooping eyelids, the full lips, and the prominent nose – all contributing to a characterization that appears both thoughtful and somewhat weary.
The use of shading creates volume and depth, particularly around the jawline and beneath the chin. The artist’s technique allows for a certain ambiguity; details are suggested rather than precisely defined, which lends an air of informality to the portrait. A signature is visible in the upper right corner, executed with a more controlled hand compared to the rest of the drawing.
Subtly, theres a sense of quiet dignity conveyed by the subject’s posture and expression. The slight downturn of the mouth could be interpreted as a reflection on life or perhaps an acknowledgement of its complexities. The overall effect is one of a man who has experienced much, possessing both intelligence and a certain degree of world-weariness.