Portrait of MA Kikino. 1816 BA, um. c., Sang. , Ink. 22. 2h17. 5 RM Orest Adamovich Kiprensky (1782-1836)

Here we observe a portrait executed in sanguine chalk and ink on paper. The subject is a young woman depicted from the chest upwards, facing directly towards the viewer with a composed expression. Her gaze is steady and unwavering, conveying a sense of quiet dignity.
The artist has rendered her features with delicate precision. A soft blush tints her cheeks, suggesting youthfulness and health. Her eyebrows are arched slightly, contributing to an overall impression of intelligence and perhaps a touch of reserve. The mouth is closed, the lips subtly defined, avoiding any overt display of emotion. Dark hair frames her face, styled in a manner consistent with early 19th-century fashion, partially concealed by a white head covering – likely a bonnet or scarf – which drapes loosely around her shoulders.
The artist’s handling of light and shadow is noteworthy. The use of sanguine chalk creates a warm, muted tonal range that softens the edges of the figure and lends a sense of intimacy to the portrait. Ink outlines delineate key features – the contours of the face, the folds in the clothing, and the details of the head covering – providing definition and structure. The background is left largely unrendered, allowing the focus to remain entirely on the subject.
Subtleties within the work suggest a possible narrative beyond a simple likeness. The simplicity of her attire and the lack of elaborate ornamentation imply a certain modesty or perhaps a deliberate downplaying of social status. The directness of her gaze suggests confidence and self-possession, while the slight upward tilt of her chin hints at an underlying strength of character.
The overall effect is one of restrained elegance and quiet introspection. It’s not a portrait intended to showcase wealth or grandeur, but rather to capture the essence of a person – her inner qualities as much as her outward appearance. The artist seems interested in portraying a sense of psychological depth, inviting the viewer to contemplate the subjects character and story.