Portrait of Alexander S. Matveev in childhood Vasily Ivanovich Surikov (1848-1916)

Here we observe a portrait study focusing on a young boys likeness. The composition is straightforward: a bust-length depiction against a muted, indistinct background that appears to be a chair or upholstered surface. The artist has employed a limited palette of browns, creams, and blacks, creating an overall somber and restrained atmosphere.
The boy’s attire consists of a dark jacket with a crisp white collar, suggesting a degree of formality appropriate for a portrait. His hair is short and neatly combed, further reinforcing this sense of order. The artists brushwork appears loose and rapid, particularly in the rendering of the background and clothing; these areas lack sharp definition, contributing to an impression of immediacy and spontaneity.
The boy’s expression is perhaps the most compelling element. His gaze is direct but not engaging, conveying a quiet seriousness or even melancholy. The slight downturn of his mouth suggests introspection rather than outward joy. This nuanced emotional state lends the portrait a psychological depth uncommon in depictions of children.
Subtleties within the work hint at possible interpretations. The limited color range and somewhat blurred edges could be read as an attempt to capture not just physical appearance, but also a sense of the boy’s inner world – his thoughts or feelings. The formality of dress contrasted with the informal brushwork creates a tension between expectation and reality. It is plausible that the artist sought to portray the subjects character rather than simply documenting his features.
The signature in the lower left corner, rendered in a similar style to the rest of the work, reinforces the impression of an intimate study undertaken quickly and with focused attention. The portrait seems less concerned with grand artistic statements and more interested in capturing a fleeting moment and a particular emotional state within a young individual.