Портрет Марии Алексеевны Львовой 1781 Холст масло 63х49 см часть 2 - Russian and soviet artists Русские и советские художники

The portrait presents a woman in a three-quarter view, her gaze directed towards the viewer with a subtle, almost hesitant expression. The composition is intimate; she occupies most of the frame, drawing immediate attention to her presence and demeanor. Her posture suggests a relaxed confidence, though not one of overt display.
Here we see an elaborate hairstyle, characteristic of the period, dominating the upper portion of the image. It’s rendered with considerable detail, showcasing the artists skill in capturing texture and volume. The hair appears to be loosely arranged, suggesting a degree of informality within the conventions of aristocratic portraiture.
The woman is dressed in garments that reflect contemporary fashion: a low-cut bodice over a flowing blouse with gathered sleeves. The color palette is restrained – muted browns, creams, and touches of red create a sense of warmth without being overly vibrant. The fabric appears soft and luxurious, hinting at the sitter’s social standing.
The background is dark and indistinct, serving to isolate the figure and focus attention on her face and upper body. This lack of environmental detail contributes to an atmosphere of quiet introspection. A faint inscription is visible in the lower right corner, likely indicating the date and perhaps the artists signature.
Subtleties within the portrait suggest a complex character. The slight downturn of the mouth might indicate melancholy or thoughtful contemplation rather than simple happiness. Her eyes hold a certain depth, hinting at an inner life beyond what is immediately apparent. There’s a sense of vulnerability conveyed through her gaze and posture, which contrasts with the expected grandeur often associated with portraits of this era.
The overall effect is one of understated elegance and psychological complexity. The artist has not merely recorded a likeness but attempted to capture something of the sitters personality and inner world.