Portrait of a young lady Alexei Alexeivich Harlamoff (1840-1923)

The painting presents a half-length portrait of a young woman in profile. She is positioned against a backdrop of indistinct foliage rendered in broad strokes of green and touches of lighter hues, suggesting a natural setting without specific detail. The artist has chosen a three-quarter view, allowing for the depiction of her facial features while maintaining an air of quiet contemplation.
The subject’s dark, curly hair frames her face, cascading down to mingle with the folds of a vibrant red shawl or cloak draped over her shoulders. This garment is painted with energetic brushwork, creating a sense of movement and texture that contrasts with the more subdued tones of her skin and the background. The fabrics color draws immediate attention, acting as a visual anchor within the composition. Beneath the shawl, a glimpse of white lace suggests an undergarment or blouse, adding another layer of detail to her attire.
Her features are delicately rendered; the nose is prominent, the lips slightly parted in what could be interpreted as a subtle expression of melancholy or introspection. A single earring dangles from her earlobe, catching the light and providing a small focal point. The eyes, directed towards an unseen point beyond the frame, convey a sense of inwardness and perhaps a touch of vulnerability.
The artist’s technique is characterized by loose brushstrokes and a focus on capturing the essence of form rather than precise detail. This approach lends the portrait a feeling of immediacy and spontaneity. The signature in the lower left corner indicates an artistic hand concerned with conveying personality through expressive application of paint.
Subtly, the painting hints at themes of femininity, introspection, and perhaps even social standing. The quality of her clothing and the careful rendering of her features suggest a certain level of privilege or refinement. However, the melancholic expression and the somewhat isolated setting imply a deeper emotional complexity beyond mere outward appearance. The overall effect is one of quiet elegance tinged with an undercurrent of introspection.