blind musician. Ok. 1864 (c. Et. Seller singers in Paris, TG). H., m. 55, 5h48 TG Vasily Perov (1833-1882)

Here we observe a portrait of a man, rendered in a style characterized by loose brushwork and a muted palette. The subject is depicted in profile, his gaze directed downwards and away from the viewer. He appears to be a street performer, holding what seems to be an instrument – possibly a flute or recorder – and a collection of sheet music secured with a ribbon. A walking stick rests against his arm, suggesting mobility despite potential physical limitations.
The man is adorned in a wide-brimmed hat, its shadow partially obscuring his face and contributing to the overall somber mood. The hat’s design, along with the cut of his coat, hints at a particular era – likely mid-19th century – and suggests he operates within an urban environment. A white collar is visible beneath the dark jacket, providing a small contrast in color and texture.
The artists technique emphasizes form through tonal variations rather than precise detail. The background is indistinct, blending into a hazy atmosphere that isolates the figure and directs attention to his countenance. This lack of environmental context reinforces the sense of solitude and perhaps marginalization experienced by the subject.
Subtexts within this work revolve around themes of poverty, disability, and the role of music in urban life. The man’s blindness – implied through his averted gaze – is not presented as a source of pity but rather as an integral aspect of his identity as a performer. He is actively engaged with his craft, suggesting resilience and self-sufficiency despite societal challenges. The sheet music he carries implies literacy and musical training, challenging assumptions about the lives of street performers.
The painting’s subdued color scheme and melancholic expression evoke a sense of quiet dignity and introspection. It invites contemplation on the human condition, particularly concerning those who exist on the fringes of society and find solace or livelihood through artistic expression. The work seems to be less concerned with documenting a specific individual than with exploring broader social themes related to urban poverty and the power of music as a means of survival and connection.