Portrait of Skobeeva, daughter of a sailor, pupil and favorite D.P. Troshchinsky, wife of the Smolensk landowner D. Skobeev Vladimir Borovikovsky (1757-1825)

The portrait presents a young woman in a relaxed pose, seated against a backdrop of indistinct foliage. She is positioned slightly off-center, her gaze directed towards the viewer with a contemplative expression. The lighting emphasizes her face and upper torso, creating a soft focus that obscures details within the background.
Her attire reflects the fashion of the late eighteenth century: a flowing white gown with delicate sleeves gathered at the wrist, draped with a blue shawl across her shoulders. A pale pink ribbon adorns her hair, which is styled in elaborate curls characteristic of the period. She wears a pearl bracelet on her left wrist and holds an apple in that same hand, its green skin contrasting with the muted tones of her clothing.
The artist’s technique demonstrates a mastery of light and shadow, particularly evident in the rendering of the womans complexion and the subtle play of highlights across her hair. The brushwork appears smooth and blended, contributing to an overall impression of refinement and elegance.
Beyond the surface depiction, several subtexts emerge from this portrayal. The apple she holds carries symbolic weight; it can be interpreted as a reference to temptation, knowledge, or even domesticity. Her gaze, while direct, lacks overt coquetry, suggesting a certain reserve and intelligence. The setting, though vaguely defined, implies an outdoor environment, hinting at leisure and perhaps a connection to nature.
The overall effect is one of idealized beauty combined with a quiet dignity. It’s likely that the portrait was intended not only as a likeness but also as a representation of her character and social standing – a testament to the sitters perceived virtues within the context of her time.