Портрет царевны Прасковьи Ивановны племянницы Петра I 1714 Холст масло 88х68 см часть 2 - Russian and soviet artists Русские и советские художники

Here we see a portrait of a woman, rendered in a style characteristic of early 18th-century European courtly portraiture. The composition is straightforward: a bust-length depiction against a dark, almost featureless background that emphasizes the subjects presence. Her gaze is directed forward, conveying an impression of composure and perhaps a degree of formality.
The artist has employed a limited palette dominated by deep reds and blacks, with touches of gold and cream to highlight certain features. The red fabric of her garment immediately draws attention, its rich color suggesting status and wealth. The folds of the material are loosely rendered, prioritizing overall effect over meticulous detail, which is typical for this periods approach to portraiture.
The woman’s hair is styled in a complex arrangement, indicative of fashionable trends of the time. It appears voluminous and elaborately arranged, further reinforcing her position within a privileged social stratum. The artist has used light to highlight the contours of her face, softening some features while emphasizing others – particularly around the eyes and mouth.
The presence of what appear to be feathers or plumes at her shoulder adds another layer of visual interest and likely carries symbolic weight related to status or military affiliation. They are rendered with a looser brushstroke than other elements, contributing to a sense of dynamism within an otherwise static composition.
Subtly, the artist has conveyed a certain solemnity in the subject’s expression. It is not overtly joyful but rather suggests a dignified restraint. The dark background and limited color range contribute to this mood, creating a portrait that feels both formal and somewhat austere. Overall, the work functions as a visual declaration of social standing and personal identity within a hierarchical society.