Portrait FV Rostopchina. 1822. Lithograph with Fig. Kiprensky. 35, 8h27, 3. GRM Orest Adamovich Kiprensky (1782-1836)

Here we observe a lithograph depicting a man in a formal pose. The subject is positioned at a three-quarter angle, his gaze directed towards the viewer with a directness that establishes a connection. He stands with arms crossed over his chest, a gesture often associated with introspection or perhaps a subtle defensiveness. His expression is complex; it conveys both intelligence and a certain melancholy.
The artist has rendered the subject’s features with considerable detail, emphasizing the lines around his eyes and mouth, suggesting age and experience. The hair, dark and slightly disheveled, frames his face, contributing to an overall impression of thoughtful complexity rather than rigid formality. The lighting is carefully managed; it highlights the planes of his face while leaving portions in shadow, adding depth and volume.
The lithographic technique itself contributes significantly to the work’s character. The tonal range achieved through hatching and cross-hatching creates a sense of texture and nuance, lending a gravity to the portrait. The limited palette – primarily shades of gray – further enhances this somber mood.
Beneath the image, Cyrillic script is visible, providing contextual information about the work’s creation and attribution. This inscription anchors the depiction within a specific historical and cultural context.
Subtly, theres an air of quiet dignity about the man portrayed. The crossed arms might suggest a certain reserve or perhaps a protective stance, hinting at underlying anxieties or burdens. The overall effect is one of a man who has lived a full life, marked by both intellectual pursuits and personal struggles. He appears to be someone accustomed to observation, yet also guarded in his presentation.