Self-portrait Vasily Ivanovich Surikov (1848-1916)

Here we observe a portrait study executed in charcoal on paper. The subject is depicted from the chest upwards, facing directly toward the viewer with a somewhat melancholic expression. A dense mane of hair frames the face, rendered with agitated, short strokes that suggest volume and texture. The artist employed a loose, expressive technique throughout, prioritizing capturing an impression rather than meticulous detail.
The facial features are characterized by a pronounced brow ridge, a strong nose, and a tightly compressed mouth. These elements contribute to a sense of gravity and introspection. Shadows play a crucial role in defining the form; they deepen around the eyes, under the chin, and along the sides of the nose, creating a dramatic interplay of light and dark that emphasizes the subject’s emotional state.
The clothing is suggested with minimal detail – a jacket or coat with a visible tie – the focus remaining firmly on the face and its expression. The artists signature appears in the lower right corner, along with the year 1905, providing temporal context for the work.
Subtly, there’s an element of vulnerability conveyed through the direct gaze; it is not confrontational but rather seems to invite a quiet understanding from the observer. The lack of background and the close cropping further intensify this sense of intimacy and psychological depth. It appears less as a formal portrait intended for display and more as a personal exploration, a visual record of an individual’s inner world at a specific moment in time.