Portrait of Nikolai Struisky Fyodor Rokotov (1735-1808)

The portrait presents a young man facing forward, his gaze directed towards the viewer with a measured intensity. He is positioned against a dark, almost featureless background that recedes into shadow, effectively isolating him and drawing attention to his figure. The lighting is soft and diffused, illuminating his face and upper torso while leaving the lower portion of his garment in relative obscurity.
Here we see a man dressed in the fashion of the late 18th century: a green coat with elaborate gold embroidery over a delicate lace jabot at the neck. His hair is styled into an upward sweep, typical of the period’s aristocratic aesthetic. The color palette is restrained; greens and browns dominate, punctuated by the gleam of the gold detailing. This limited range contributes to a sense of formality and perhaps even austerity.
The artist has rendered the face with a degree of realism, capturing subtle nuances in the subjects expression. There is an air of quiet confidence, but also a hint of melancholy or introspection discernible around the eyes. The skin tone appears pale, suggesting either a deliberate artistic choice to convey refinement or potentially reflecting the sitter’s complexion.
The brushwork displays a looseness characteristic of portraiture from this era, particularly when executed in oil. Details are suggested rather than meticulously defined, lending a sense of immediacy and spontaneity to the work. The texture of the fabric is implied through subtle variations in color and tone, avoiding overly precise representation.
Subtly, the painting conveys an impression of social standing and cultivated taste. The quality of the clothing, the elaborate hairstyle, and the formal pose all point towards a person of means and influence. However, the subdued colors and introspective gaze introduce a layer of complexity, hinting at a personality that is perhaps more nuanced than mere outward display might suggest. The darkness surrounding him could be interpreted as symbolic of the burdens or responsibilities associated with his position, or simply as a compositional device to emphasize his presence.