Portrait of Peter Bakunin the Bolshoi Dmitry Levitsky (Levitzky) (1735-1822)

The portrait presents a man in a three-quarter pose, gazing directly at the viewer with a measured expression. He is positioned against a dark, indistinct background that serves to emphasize his figure and attire. The lighting is carefully orchestrated; it illuminates his face and upper torso while leaving the surrounding areas in shadow, creating a sense of depth and highlighting the textures of his clothing.
The man’s appearance adheres to the fashion of the late 18th century. He wears a dark blue coat with elaborate gold embroidery along the lapels and cuffs. A meticulously tied lace cravat adorns his neck, partially visible beneath the coats open collar. His hair is styled in a powdered wig, typical of the period’s aristocratic fashion. The most striking element of his attire is the large star-shaped order pinned prominently to his chest; its intricate design and size suggest high rank and significant social standing.
The artist has rendered the man’s features with considerable detail. His complexion appears pale, suggesting a life spent largely indoors. There are subtle indications of age around his eyes and mouth, though these are softened by the overall presentation. The gaze is direct but not confrontational; it conveys an impression of intelligence and perhaps a degree of self-assurance.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of a man in formal attire, the painting carries subtexts related to status and authority. The elaborate clothing and insignia clearly denote membership within a privileged social class. The formality of the pose and the direct gaze suggest a desire for recognition and respect. The dark background contributes to an atmosphere of solemnity and importance, reinforcing the subject’s elevated position. The artists choice to include the date 1782 in the lower right corner anchors the portrait within a specific historical context, further emphasizing its significance as a record of a person of note during that era.