Portrait P. Sokolova, sister of the artist. 1836 Karl Pavlovich Bryullov (1799-1852)

The drawing presents a young woman in a formal pose, facing directly toward the viewer. She is positioned against a plain background, which allows for a concentrated focus on her features and attire. The artist employed charcoal or graphite, judging by the visible texture of the medium and the range of tonal values achieved through hatching and blending.
The subject’s expression is one of quiet composure; her gaze is steady and direct, conveying an impression of intelligence and perhaps a touch of melancholy. Her hair is neatly styled, pulled back from her face in a simple arrangement that emphasizes her high forehead and delicate bone structure. The clothing she wears – a dark, high-necked garment with a shawl draped across her shoulders – suggests a degree of social standing and adherence to conventional norms of the period.
The artist’s technique is notable for its nuanced rendering of light and shadow. Subtle gradations in tone define the contours of her face and the folds of her clothing, creating a sense of depth and volume. The hatching patterns are particularly evident on the shawl, where they contribute to a textural richness that contrasts with the smoother treatment of the skin.
Beyond the straightforward depiction of a portrait, there is an underlying feeling of introspection. The lack of background detail isolates the subject, drawing attention to her inner state rather than any specific environment or narrative context. This isolation, combined with her direct gaze and restrained expression, suggests a certain reserve and perhaps even a quiet dignity. It’s possible that the artist intended to convey not only a likeness but also an insight into the character of the woman depicted – a sense of her personality beyond mere physical appearance. The signature in the upper right corner, though partially obscured, reinforces the personal nature of this work; it is clearly a study undertaken with considerable care and attention.