Portraits Menshikov Vasily Ivanovich Surikov (1848-1916)

The composition presents three portrait studies arranged on a single plane, suggesting preliminary sketches or compositional explorations rather than finished works. The overall tone is informal and exploratory, characterized by loose brushwork and a muted color palette dominated by creams, pale blues, and pinks.
On the left, we see a woman depicted in profile. Her gaze is directed towards the viewer, lending her an air of quiet dignity. She wears a gown with a low neckline tied with a ribbon at the chest, indicative of fashionable attire for the period. The artist has rendered her hair in a style typical of the late 18th century, elaborately styled and powdered.
In the center, a figure is sketched in outline, appearing to be a man in formal dress. This sketch lacks the detail and color present in the other two portraits, suggesting it may have been an initial exploration of pose or composition rather than a fully realized portrait.
To the right, another woman’s bust is presented. Her face is turned slightly towards the viewer, with a gentle expression. She wears a similar gown to the woman on the left, but her hair is adorned with flowers and ribbons, adding a touch of ornamentation. A small red detail – likely part of her garment or accessory – provides a subtle contrast against the otherwise pale tones.
Beneath each portrait are handwritten notations, presumably identifying the subjects. These inscriptions add another layer to the work, grounding it in specific individuals while simultaneously acknowledging its status as a study rather than a definitive representation.
The arrangement and execution suggest that these portraits were created as part of a larger series or project, perhaps commissioned by a patron interested in capturing likenesses of prominent figures. The unfinished quality of the studies allows for an intimate glimpse into the artist’s process, revealing the preliminary stages of portrait creation.