Self-Portrait Boris Grigoriev (1886-1939)

The painting presents a frontal portrait of a man wearing a hat, rendered in a style characterized by angular forms and a limited palette. The subject is positioned against a backdrop of deep red hues that bleed into black on the left side, creating a sense of confinement or isolation.
Here we see a deliberate fragmentation of facial features. The nose appears as a series of planes, sharply defined and jutting forward. Similarly, the eyes are rendered with an intensity achieved through stark contrasts in light and shadow; they seem to pierce directly outward, conveying a feeling of scrutiny or perhaps melancholy. The mouth is compressed into a thin line, contributing to an overall impression of seriousness and restraint.
The hat casts a significant shadow across the face, further emphasizing the angularity and obscuring certain details. It also serves as a compositional element, directing the viewers gaze towards the subject’s eyes. The man wears what appears to be a dark suit jacket, its texture suggested through broad brushstrokes that lack detailed rendering.
The color scheme is dominated by earthy tones – ochres, browns, and muted yellows – contrasted with the vibrant red background. This juxtaposition creates visual tension and draws attention to the subject’s face. The application of paint appears somewhat rough and immediate, suggesting a focus on capturing emotional essence rather than meticulous realism.
Subtly, there is an air of introspection conveyed through the pose and expression. The mans gaze suggests a complex inner life, hinting at experiences that have shaped his demeanor. The starkness of the composition and the limited color range contribute to a sense of psychological depth, implying a deliberate exploration of identity and self-perception. The overall effect is one of quiet intensity and understated drama.