Portrait of Prince Mikhail Andreevich Obolensky Karl Pavlovich Bryullov (1799-1852)

The composition presents a man in three-quarter view against a deep red backdrop. He is positioned centrally within the frame, his gaze directed towards the viewer with a composed and somewhat reserved expression. The lighting emphasizes his face and upper torso, creating highlights that accentuate the texture of his clothing and skin tone.
He wears an elaborate costume suggestive of historical or ceremonial significance. A richly patterned tunic, rendered in muted blues and creams, is adorned with gold detailing at the collar and waist. Over this, a dark purple cloak lined with fur drapes across his shoulders, adding a sense of grandeur and warmth. His hands are placed deliberately on his hips, one resting gently upon the fabric of his tunic, conveying an air of relaxed authority.
The background is not merely decorative; it functions as a symbolic space. A collection of weaponry – swords, helmets, and shields – is arranged in a haphazard yet deliberate manner along the wall behind him. This assemblage suggests a connection to military heritage or noble lineage. The presence of these objects elevates the portrait beyond a simple likeness, implying a narrative about ancestry, duty, and perhaps even martial prowess. A richly patterned cushion is visible at the lower right corner, adding another layer of visual complexity and reinforcing the sense of opulence.
The overall effect is one of restrained elegance and understated power. The man’s posture and expression convey dignity and self-assurance, while his attire and the background elements hint at a complex identity rooted in tradition and privilege. The artist has skillfully employed color and light to create a portrait that is both visually striking and laden with symbolic meaning. Its likely intended as an affirmation of status and lineage, presenting the subject not just as an individual but as a representative of a particular social order.