Portrait of a ballerina L. A. Ivanova Zinaida Serebryakova (1884-1967)

The drawing presents a young woman in what appears to be a ballet costume. She is positioned centrally within the frame, her gaze directed towards the viewer with a directness that establishes a connection. The figures posture suggests a moment of repose; her arms are crossed delicately over her chest, and her shoulders are slightly rounded, conveying an air of quiet introspection rather than dynamic movement.
The artist employed a limited palette – primarily shades of brown and ochre – which contributes to the work’s muted, almost sepia-toned atmosphere. The use of these earth tones lends a sense of timelessness and fragility to the subject. Lines are loose and expressive, suggesting a rapid execution and prioritizing gesture over precise detail. This approach emphasizes the fleeting nature of the moment captured.
The rendering of the hair is particularly noteworthy; it cascades around her face and shoulders in swirling, energetic strokes that contrast with the stillness of her pose. The treatment of the skirt, rendered as a series of soft, blurred lines, further reinforces this sense of movement and ethereal grace.
Beyond the literal depiction of a ballerina, the drawing seems to explore themes of vulnerability and inner contemplation. The direct gaze, combined with the crossed arms, suggests a guardedness or perhaps a quiet strength. The lack of background detail focuses attention entirely on the figure, isolating her within the frame and amplifying her emotional presence. One might interpret this as an exploration of the personal cost of dedication to art, hinting at the sacrifices inherent in pursuing such a demanding discipline. The overall impression is one of delicate beauty tinged with melancholy.