Женский портрет. 1825 Mikhail Terebenev (1795-1866)

Here we observe a portrait of a woman rendered in watercolor and pencil on paper. The subject is positioned in a three-quarter view, her gaze directed towards the viewer with a directness that suggests both confidence and a degree of formality. Her complexion appears pale, accentuated by the dark curls framing her face, which are styled in a manner characteristic of early 19th-century fashion.
The artist has paid considerable attention to detailing the elaborate headwear. A complex arrangement of white fabric, possibly lace or tulle, is draped around her head and secured with what seems to be an ornate headdress featuring plumes of vibrant orange feathers. This element immediately signals a position of social standing and adherence to contemporary trends in aristocratic dress.
The woman’s attire further reinforces this impression. She wears a blue gown with puffed sleeves, the bodice adorned with a striking red scarf or shawl that cascades across her shoulders. A delicate necklace, composed of what appears to be ruby-colored beads, rests against her skin, adding another layer of refinement and luxury.
The artist’s use of shading creates a sense of volume and depth, particularly noticeable in the rendering of the fabric folds and the contours of her face. The background is left largely unadorned, allowing the focus to remain entirely on the subject. This simplicity serves to isolate her within the composition, emphasizing her presence and importance.
Subtly, theres a sense of restraint conveyed through the woman’s expression. While direct, it lacks overt emotion; instead, it suggests composure and perhaps a quiet intelligence. The overall effect is one of idealized beauty combined with an air of dignified reserve – qualities often associated with women of high social status during this period. The presence of signatures in script at the bottom corners indicates authorship and date, grounding the image within a specific historical context.