Portrait of Princess Ekaterina Dolgorukova with sons Vasily and Nikolai Jean-Louis Voille (1744-1829)

The portrait presents a woman seated, holding two young boys in her lap. She is positioned centrally within the composition, commanding immediate attention. The artist has rendered her with a direct gaze towards the viewer, conveying a sense of composure and perhaps even authority. Her expression is subtle; it suggests both maternal tenderness and an underlying dignity.
The woman’s attire contributes significantly to the overall impression. A silvery-grey gown, draped in soft folds, emphasizes her form while also lending a certain formality to the scene. The high coiffure, typical of the period, adds height and further reinforces this sense of elevated status. The color palette is muted, dominated by cool tones that create an atmosphere of restrained elegance.
The two boys are positioned close to her, one standing beside her and the other nestled in her arms. Their presence underscores the theme of motherhood and familial connection. The older boy’s stance – a small hand resting on his hip – suggests a nascent sense of self-possession, while the infants relaxed posture conveys innocence and dependence.
Behind the woman, a dark green curtain provides a backdrop that serves to isolate her from any specific external environment. This deliberate choice focuses attention entirely on the figures themselves and their relationship. The limited depth of field contributes to this effect, flattening the space and emphasizing the two-dimensionality of the portrait.
Subtly, there is an implication of power and privilege embedded within the composition. The woman’s bearing, her clothing, and the careful arrangement of the children all point towards a position of considerable social standing. While the scene appears intimate, it also functions as a visual statement about lineage and societal role. The artist has skillfully balanced the depiction of familial warmth with an awareness of the subjects place within a hierarchical structure.