How they dressed in the old days (Lady and gentleman) Konstantin Andreevich Somov (1869-1939)

The composition presents a couple engaged in a gesture that suggests intimacy and courtly affection. The woman stands slightly ahead, her posture conveying a delicate poise while she turns towards the gentleman. He leans into her, his hand gently touching her cheek – an action laden with implication of admiration or perhaps playful teasing.
Here we see a meticulous attention to detail regarding attire. The lady’s gown is voluminous and elaborately constructed, featuring a pale pink hue accented by intricate lace detailing at the neckline and hem. Her hairstyle is equally extravagant, a towering confection of curls, ribbons, and floral ornamentation that speaks to the height of fashionable excess in its era. Similarly, the gentlemans ensemble showcases the characteristic elements of men’s fashion: a fitted coat with ornate buttons, breeches tucked into low-heeled shoes, and a powdered wig styled with precision. The fabrics appear rich and luxurious, suggesting considerable wealth and social standing.
The background is deliberately understated, a plain beige tone that serves to isolate and emphasize the figures and their clothing. This lack of environmental context directs the viewer’s focus entirely on the couple and their presentation.
Subtly, the painting conveys notions of societal hierarchy and prescribed behavior within aristocratic circles. The formality of the gesture, despite its apparent tenderness, hints at a carefully orchestrated performance of courtship rituals. The elaborate costumes are not merely decorative; they function as visual markers of status and belonging. One might interpret the scene as an idealized representation of romance within a rigid social structure, where appearances and adherence to convention were paramount. The overall effect is one of studied elegance and restrained emotion, characteristic of the periods aesthetic ideals.