Portrait of Prince Alexei Ivanovich Gorchakov. 1810 20 th BN, soft ground, Roulette. 27, 9x21, 5 Rybinsk. jpeg Orest Adamovich Kiprensky (1782-1836)

The drawing presents a man in formal military attire, viewed from the chest up. He is positioned centrally within the frame and gazes directly towards the viewer with a somewhat placid expression. The artist has rendered his features with careful attention to detail; one observes a rounded face, softened by slight jowls, and eyes that convey an impression of quiet intelligence or perhaps mild weariness. A neatly trimmed beard and mustache add to the overall sense of established authority and refinement.
The man’s clothing is significant in conveying status. He wears a dark jacket adorned with elaborate epaulettes, suggesting a high-ranking military position. Several medals and orders are pinned prominently on his chest, further emphasizing his distinguished service and noble lineage. A crisp white collar frames the neck, contrasting sharply with the darker tones of the jacket and contributing to a sense of formality.
The technique employed in this drawing is notable. The use of soft ground etching and roulette suggests an attempt at achieving subtle tonal variations and textures. This is evident in the rendering of the facial features, where delicate shading creates a sense of volume and depth. The background is left largely unrendered, allowing the focus to remain squarely on the subject.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of a man in uniform, subtexts emerge from the work’s composition and style. The direct gaze establishes an immediate connection with the viewer, inviting scrutiny and perhaps even prompting reflection on the individuals character or role within society. The formal attire and medals speak to a system of hierarchy and privilege, hinting at the social structures prevalent during the period in which this drawing was created. The overall impression is one of restrained dignity and quiet power – a portrait intended not merely to record likeness but also to convey status and authority.