Portrait of a Young Woman Alexei Alexeivich Harlamoff (1840-1923)

Here we observe a drawing depicting a young woman in a three-quarter pose. The composition is centered on her face and upper torso, with the background left largely undefined, contributing to a sense of intimacy and focus on the subjects expression.
The artist employed charcoal or graphite to create a tonal range that emphasizes volume and texture. Light falls predominantly from the left, illuminating one side of her face and creating shadows that define the contours of her cheekbones, nose, and chin. This lighting also highlights the unruly mass of hair cascading around her head, rendered with loose, energetic strokes that suggest movement and a certain untamed quality.
The woman’s gaze is direct, yet melancholic. Her eyes are large and appear slightly downcast, conveying an impression of introspection or perhaps quiet sadness. The mouth is subtly downturned, reinforcing this feeling of subdued emotion. Theres a vulnerability in her expression that invites the viewer to contemplate her inner state.
She wears what appears to be a loosely draped garment, possibly a shawl or robe, which adds another layer of texture and visual interest. The fabric’s folds are rendered with careful attention to light and shadow, creating a sense of depth and volume. One hand is raised near her chest, as if in a gesture of either protectiveness or perhaps a subtle plea.
The drawings overall aesthetic suggests an exploration of psychological portraiture. It moves beyond mere representation to attempt capturing the sitter’s emotional landscape. The lack of detailed background and the emphasis on facial expression indicate that the artist was less concerned with external appearances and more interested in conveying a sense of inner life. The unfinished quality, characteristic of charcoal drawings, contributes to this feeling of immediacy and authenticity.

The signature at the bottom right corner suggests an individualistic approach to artistic creation.