Portrait of Anna Feodorovna Furman. Until 1816. Oil on canvas. 42, 5h33, 2. GRM Orest Adamovich Kiprensky (1782-1836)

The portrait presents a woman in a three-quarter view, her gaze directed slightly off-center and downward. She is positioned against a backdrop of muted, swirling colors – a combination of deep reds, browns, and hints of cream – which create an atmospheric depth without providing specific details. The lighting is soft and diffused, illuminating the face with a gentle glow that emphasizes its contours.
The woman’s hair is styled in elaborate ringlets gathered at the nape of her neck, a fashionable arrangement for the period. Her complexion appears pale, rendered with subtle gradations of color to suggest volume and texture. A dark-colored dress with an ornate neckline frames her shoulders; the intricate detailing on the collar draws attention to the upper chest and face.
The artist’s brushwork is loose and expressive, particularly noticeable in the background where forms dissolve into a wash of color. This technique lends a sense of immediacy and intimacy to the portrayal. The focus remains firmly on the subjects countenance; her expression is complex – a mixture of quiet contemplation and perhaps a touch of melancholy. There’s an understated elegance conveyed through her posture and the restrained use of ornamentation.
Subtly, the painting suggests a narrative beyond a simple likeness. The downward gaze might imply introspection or a sense of reserve. The muted color palette and soft lighting contribute to a mood of quiet dignity, hinting at a personality that is both refined and perhaps burdened by unspoken thoughts. The overall effect is one of restrained emotion and understated social standing – a portrait intended not for ostentatious display but rather as a personal memento or a record of character.