Portrait of Dr. G. Kostrova Ilya Repin (1844-1930)

The drawing presents a man depicted in a three-quarter pose within an oval frame. The subjects gaze is directed towards the viewer, conveying a sense of directness and perhaps even mild amusement. His expression suggests intelligence and a certain self-assuredness.
Here we see a man with receding hairline and prominent facial features – notably his nose and cheeks, which are rendered with careful attention to shading that emphasizes their form. The skin tone is captured through subtle gradations of ochre and pink, suggesting both vitality and the effects of age. A flush on his cheeks hints at either physical exertion or perhaps a touch of embarrassment.
The man is dressed in formal attire: a dark coat with a high collar, a crisp white shirt, and a bow tie. The meticulous rendering of the fabric’s texture – the sheen of the coat, the folds of the shirt – indicates an interest in portraying not just appearance but also social standing and refinement. A glimpse of his hand holding what appears to be a small object (possibly a pen or watch) is visible at the lower left corner; this detail adds a touch of intimacy and suggests a man engaged in intellectual pursuits.
The artist’s use of light and shadow creates depth and volume, particularly around the face and chest. The background remains largely undifferentiated, drawing attention solely to the figure. This simplicity reinforces the focus on the individuals character and presence.
Subtly, the portrait conveys a sense of quiet dignity and intellectual gravitas. The formal attire and direct gaze suggest a man of importance – likely someone in a profession requiring both knowledge and social decorum. The slight smile hints at an underlying warmth and approachability that tempers any impression of aloofness. Overall, the drawing aims to capture not just a likeness but also a sense of personality and status.