soldiers head in a cocked hat Vasily Ivanovich Surikov (1848-1916)

The drawing presents a male figure, likely a soldier, rendered in charcoal on paper. The subject is depicted from the chest upwards, his gaze directed towards the viewer with a palpable intensity. He wears a cocked hat, its brim casting shadows across his face and contributing to an overall sense of dramatic lighting.
Here we see a focus on capturing the character’s features with a degree of realism tempered by expressive mark-making. The artist employed a loose, sketchy style; lines are not consistently clean or precise, but rather convey a feeling of immediacy and observation. The shading is particularly noteworthy – it defines the planes of the face, emphasizing the prominent brow ridge, the firm set of the mouth, and the deep-set eyes. These features combine to suggest a man of determination, perhaps even severity.
The cocked hat itself is rendered with considerable detail, its folds and creases meticulously observed. It serves not only as an identifier of military status but also as a compositional element that directs the viewer’s attention towards the face. The neck appears thick and strong, adding to the impression of physical resilience.
Subtleties in the drawing suggest more than just a straightforward portrait. Theres a certain weariness evident in the lines around the eyes and mouth; it hints at experiences beyond what is immediately visible. The slightly downturned lips could be interpreted as conveying melancholy or resignation, adding layers to the subject’s character.
The signature and date in the lower right corner provide context for the works creation, but do not detract from the immediate impact of the portrait itself. Overall, the drawing conveys a sense of psychological depth and quiet dignity, portraying an individual marked by experience and imbued with a stoic presence.