Portrait of Count Grigory Grigorievich Orlov in armor Fyodor Rokotov (1735-1808)

The painting is a formal portrait of Count Grigory Grigorievich Orlov, who is depicted in armor. He is shown from the chest up, turned slightly to his left, with his gaze directed forward and a faint smile on his lips. He wears a powdered wig, a dark blue velvet jacket adorned with gold embroidery, and a bright red sash across his chest. Beneath his jacket, he wears gleaming silver or steel armor. Several medals and orders are visible, including a prominent star-shaped order on his left breast. His right hand rests on a helmet held in front of him, while his left hand is placed on his sash or belt, with part of a sword hilt visible. The background is dimly lit and somewhat indistinct, with suggestions of drapery and possibly a landscape element to his left.
The subtext of the portrait is one of power, military prowess, and high status. The title itself, Portrait of Count Grigory Grigorievich Orlov in armor, directly points to his military role. The armor signifies his martial achievements and defensive capabilities, while the rich clothing and elaborate decorations like the sash and medals emphasize his noble rank and recognition by any authority. The direct gaze and confident posture suggest self-assurance and control. The helmet, a symbol of soldiery, is held in a way that is more decorative than functional, further reinforcing the idea of a celebrated warrior rather than an active combatant. The overall presentation is designed to immortalize Orlov as a distinguished military figure and a man of importance within the court.