Kiprensky Orestes – Portrait of Alexander Pushkin (1827) GTG 900 Classic russian paintings

The painting is a portrait of Alexander Pushkin, the renowned Russian poet, painted by Orest Kiprensky in 1827. Pushkin is depicted from the waist up, turned slightly to the right, with his arms crossed. He has curly, dark hair and a beard, and his gaze is directed outwards, beyond the viewer. He wears a dark coat, over which is draped a colorful scarf with plaid patterns in red, green, and black. The background is a muted yellow-brown, and to his right, a dark sculptural figure holding a lyre is visible.

The subtext of the painting can be interpreted in several ways:

• Intellectual and Artistic Prowess: The inclusion of the lyre, a symbol of music and poetry in ancient Greece, directly links Pushkin to the classical tradition of art and literature. It elevates him from just a writer to a figure of artistic and cultural significance.
• Nostalgia and Romanticism: The dark, melancholic gaze of Pushkin, combined with the somewhat somber attire and muted background, suggests a sense of introspection and perhaps a romanticized view of the artist. The thick, curly hair and beard also align with the romantic aesthetic of the era.
• Confidence and Poise: The crossed arms posture, while sometimes indicative of defensiveness, in this context can be seen as a pose of quiet confidence and self-assurance. Pushkin appears at ease and possesses a dignified presence.
• The Poet as a Muse: The sculptural figure might also represent the Muses themselves, with Pushkin depicted in their presence, signifying his close relationship with inspiration and the divine gift of poetry.
• Fashion and Status: The distinctive patterned scarf, likely a fashionable accessory of the time, adds a touch of individual style and perhaps hints at Pushkins social standing.

Overall, Kiprenskys portrait captures Pushkin not just as a likeness but as an embodiment of his poetic genius, intellectual depth, and the romantic spirit of his age.