Portrait of Ivan Lopukhin Dmitry Levitsky (Levitzky) (1735-1822)

The portrait presents a man in formal military attire, viewed from a three-quarter angle. He is positioned centrally within the frame, his gaze directed towards the viewer with a somewhat hesitant expression. The lighting emphasizes his face and upper torso, leaving the background shrouded in a muted, indistinct darkness.
Here we see a man of apparent high standing; the elaborate red uniform, richly embroidered with gold detailing, suggests military rank and privilege. A prominent star-shaped order is pinned to his chest, further reinforcing this impression of status. The meticulous rendering of the fabric’s texture – the sheen of the red coat, the intricate patterns of the embroidery – demonstrates a technical mastery on the part of the artist.
The mans hair is styled in a fashionable powdered wig, typical of the period, and his complexion appears somewhat flushed, possibly indicating either good health or an attempt to mask fatigue. The slight asymmetry of his features, particularly around the mouth, lends a degree of individuality to the depiction, preventing it from becoming merely a generic representation of nobility.
The background’s obscurity serves to isolate the subject, drawing attention solely to him and his presentation. It also creates a sense of depth, though without providing any contextual clues about his environment or activities. The overall effect is one of restrained formality; the man appears conscious of his position and aware of being observed.
Subtleties in the expression hint at complexities beyond the surface display of authority. There’s a trace of melancholy or introspection visible around the eyes, which contrasts with the outward projection of confidence conveyed by the uniform. This duality suggests a possible internal conflict or a burden carried beneath the veneer of rank and privilege. The painting doesnt offer definitive answers but rather invites contemplation about the individual behind the official portraiture.