Lezgi Murtuz Haji Agha from Dagestan. 1864 Vasily Vereshchagin (1842-1904)

The drawing presents a male figure depicted in a frontal pose, dominating the composition with his imposing presence. The artist has rendered him from the chest upwards, focusing intently on capturing the details of his face and distinctive attire. A prominent feature is the voluminous, elaborately styled hair, forming a dense, almost architectural structure atop his head. This hairstyle, meticulously detailed through cross-hatching, suggests cultural significance or perhaps a marker of status within a specific community.
The man’s facial features are sharply defined; a strong nose, deeply set eyes, and a full beard contribute to an expression that appears both resolute and somewhat austere. The artist utilizes shading to create depth and texture, emphasizing the contours of his face and conveying a sense of age or experience. A slight furrow in the brow hints at introspection or perhaps underlying seriousness.
The clothing worn by the subject is equally significant. He is draped in what seems to be a fur-lined garment, suggesting wealth or importance. The rendering of the fur’s texture adds another layer of visual interest and reinforces the impression of a man accustomed to comfort and privilege.
Beneath the portrait, an inscription in Arabic script is visible. Its presence indicates that this is more than just a likeness; its likely intended as a formal record or memorialization of the individual. The script itself suggests a connection to Islamic culture and potentially provides further information about his identity or lineage.
The overall effect of the drawing is one of dignified authority. It’s not merely a portrait, but rather an attempt to convey something of the subjects character and position within his society. The artist seems interested in documenting not just appearance, but also cultural markers and social standing. The stark contrast between light and shadow contributes to a sense of gravitas, suggesting a man who is both formidable and complex.