Portrait of a woman and sketches of hands Konstantin Andreevich Somov (1869-1939)

The drawing presents a seated female figure, rendered in a loose, gestural style with graphite on paper. The subject is positioned centrally within the frame, occupying nearly its full vertical extent. She appears to be resting against a chair or similar support, her posture suggesting a moment of quiet contemplation or repose. Her head is turned slightly towards the viewer, and her gaze is direct, though not overtly engaging.
The artist’s approach emphasizes line and form over detailed rendering. The lines are fluid and varied in thickness, contributing to a sense of immediacy and spontaneity. The chair itself is depicted with a similar lack of precision, its structure suggested rather than meticulously defined. This stylistic choice directs attention towards the figures presence and demeanor.
Below the main portrait, several sketches of hands are appended. These appear as preliminary studies or explorations of anatomical form. They are less refined than the portrait, exhibiting a greater degree of experimentation with line and perspective. The placement of these hand studies beneath the seated woman suggests a connection between them – perhaps they represent attempts to capture her gesture, or explore aspects of her character through the depiction of her hands.
The overall effect is one of intimacy and observation. Theres an impression that we are witnessing a private moment, captured with sensitivity and a focus on conveying psychological nuance rather than physical perfection. The simplicity of the medium – graphite on paper – further enhances this sense of immediacy and directness. The absence of color contributes to a feeling of quiet introspection, allowing the viewer to concentrate on the interplay of lines and forms that define the subject’s presence.