Portrait MP Lansky. 1813 Italian pencil on paper. GRM Orest Adamovich Kiprensky (1782-1836)

The drawing presents a man in military attire, rendered with meticulous detail using Italian pencil on paper. He is positioned at a slight angle to the viewer, his gaze directed towards the left of the frame. The composition is cropped, focusing primarily on the upper body and head, which contributes to an intimate feel.
Here we see a pronounced attention to texture. The artist has employed varying degrees of pressure with the pencil to create tonal contrasts that define the man’s voluminous hair – a chaotic swirl of curls suggesting both vitality and perhaps a touch of disarray. This textural emphasis extends to the rendering of his facial features, particularly around the eyes and mouth, where subtle shading conveys an impression of thoughtful introspection. The mustache is carefully delineated, adding to the overall sense of character.
The man’s uniform suggests a position of authority; the epaulettes are clearly visible, adorned with decorative elements that indicate rank. Several medals or decorations are pinned to his chest, further reinforcing this perception of status and accomplishment. His hand rests upon what appears to be a document or folded papers, hinting at administrative duties or perhaps a moment of contemplation amidst official responsibilities.
The background is largely absent, allowing the figure to dominate the visual space. The darkness surrounding him isolates him, drawing attention solely to his presence and demeanor. This stark contrast enhances the sense of immediacy and creates a dramatic effect.
Subtly, theres an air of melancholy or quiet seriousness about the man’s expression. It isnt overtly sorrowful, but rather suggests a depth of experience and perhaps a burden of responsibility. The slightly downturned mouth and the shadowed areas around his eyes contribute to this impression. The date 1813 inscribed in the upper left corner places the work within a specific historical context – likely during or shortly after the Napoleonic Wars – which might inform interpretations regarding the man’s role and experiences. Overall, the drawing conveys a sense of restrained dignity and quiet strength, capturing not only a likeness but also an essence of character.