Portrait of S.D. Shishmarev on board the ship Pavel Fedotov (1815-1852)

The drawing presents a man in formal attire standing on what appears to be the deck of a ship. He is positioned slightly off-center, facing towards the viewer but with his gaze directed away, suggesting a contemplative or distant mood. The artist has rendered him in a three-quarter pose, allowing for a detailed depiction of his clothing and facial features.
The man’s attire is significant: a dark double-breasted coat adorned with epaulettes indicates military rank or affiliation. Beneath the coat, a waistcoat and shirt are visible, contributing to an overall impression of authority and status. His posture – one hand resting casually on his hip while the other grips a railing – conveys a sense of relaxed confidence, yet also hints at a certain weariness or introspection. The slight paunch suggests comfort and perhaps a life of privilege.
The background is rendered in a looser style, depicting a hazy seascape with indistinct shapes that could be other ships or distant landmasses. This lack of detail directs the viewer’s attention to the central figure while simultaneously establishing his location within a maritime context. The railing he leans on serves as a compositional device, creating depth and anchoring him within the scene.
Subtleties in the drawing suggest more than just a straightforward portrait. The mans expression is not overtly joyful or sorrowful; it’s nuanced, hinting at an internal life beyond what can be readily observed. His gaze directed away from the viewer implies a preoccupation with something external – perhaps memories of past voyages, concerns about future endeavors, or simply a detachment from his immediate surroundings.
The choice to depict him on board a ship introduces themes of travel, exploration, and perhaps even displacement. The maritime setting could symbolize journeys both literal and metaphorical – transitions in life, encounters with the unknown, or a sense of being adrift. The drawing’s monochromatic palette contributes to a somber and reflective atmosphere, reinforcing the impression of a man burdened by thought and experience.