Portrait of the Abbot Sartori. 1818. B., um. c. 22, 8h18, 3. GRM Orest Adamovich Kiprensky (1782-1836)

The drawing presents a man in profile, depicted with a clear emphasis on capturing his likeness through meticulous rendering of light and shadow. Here we see a figure clad in clerical attire – a dark biretta sits atop his head, framing a face marked by age and experience. The artist has chosen to portray him from the chest upwards, allowing for a concentrated focus on the subject’s features and expression.
The mans gaze is directed slightly downwards, conveying an impression of contemplation or perhaps weariness. His facial structure reveals a certain stoicism; the lines etched around his eyes and mouth suggest a life lived with both responsibility and introspection. The rendering of his hair – thinning and white – further underscores his advanced years.
The artist’s technique is characterized by a skillful use of hatching and cross-hatching to create tonal variations, giving depth and volume to the figure. Notice how the light falls across his face, highlighting certain areas while leaving others in shadow, contributing to a sense of realism. The hands are crossed over his chest, positioned low, which adds to the overall impression of quiet dignity and perhaps a touch of reserve.
The drawing’s monochrome palette lends it a somber quality, reinforcing the subjects perceived gravitas. It is likely that this work served as a study or preliminary sketch for a larger portrait, given its relatively informal nature and the visible traces of the artist’s hand in the rendering process. The lack of background detail directs all attention to the individual himself, suggesting an intention to convey his character and presence above any specific setting or narrative context.