Portrait MP Kikino in childhood. 1817-1820 Karl Pavlovich Bryullov (1799-1852)

Here we observe a portrait of a young boy, likely executed in watercolor on paper. The composition is straightforward: a close-up depiction of the childs face and upper torso dominates the frame. He is positioned slightly off-center, his gaze directed towards the viewer with an expression that suggests both curiosity and nascent self-awareness.
The artist has rendered the boy’s features with a delicate touch. The skin tone is captured through subtle gradations of pink and beige, lending a sense of realism to the portrayal. Dark, short hair frames his face, meticulously detailed to suggest individual strands. The eyes are particularly striking; their dark color and directness create an immediate connection with the observer. A faint smile plays on his lips, hinting at a gentle disposition.
The boy’s attire is simple yet indicative of his social standing. He wears a light-colored shirt with a frilled collar, typical of childrens clothing in the early 19th century. The fabric appears soft and comfortable, further emphasizing the innocence and vulnerability of childhood. The loose rendering of the sleeves suggests an informal setting, perhaps a moment captured spontaneously rather than a formal posed sitting.
The background is deliberately understated – a warm, neutral tone that allows the subject to remain the focal point. This lack of detail contributes to the intimate feel of the portrait, drawing attention solely to the child’s presence. The artists signature appears in the lower right corner, executed in a cursive script.
Subtly, the painting conveys themes of innocence and potential. The boy’s direct gaze suggests an openness to the world, while his youthful features evoke a sense of promise. It is likely intended as a memento for family or close associates, preserving a fleeting moment in the subjects early life. The overall effect is one of quiet dignity and understated sentimentality, characteristic of portraiture from this period.