#22885 Boris Kustodiev (1878-1927)

The drawing presents a portrait of a young man in profile, viewed from three-quarter angle. He is depicted with a slight smile, suggesting a sense of confidence and perhaps amusement. The artist has rendered his features with a degree of realism, though softened by the medium’s inherent qualities.
Here we see a carefully constructed hairstyle; dark, neatly styled hair rises in a wave above the forehead, indicative of a particular aesthetic preference or period style. The rendering of the hair utilizes short, deliberate strokes to suggest texture and volume. His skin tone is rendered with subtle gradations, hinting at light reflecting off the surface. A small blemish on his cheek adds a touch of naturalism, preventing an overly idealized representation.
The man wears what appears to be a crisp white shirt, partially obscured by a loosely knotted tie. The artist’s attention to detail in rendering the fabrics folds and the sheen of the collar buttons suggests a focus on capturing the subject’s attire with accuracy.
The background is plain, almost entirely devoid of detail, which directs the viewer’s gaze solely towards the figure. This simplicity contributes to an intimate feel, as if the portrait were intended for private viewing rather than public display. The limited color palette – primarily shades of brown, gray, and white – reinforces this sense of quiet contemplation.
Subtly, the drawing conveys a feeling of youthful optimism and understated elegance. There is a certain formality in his posture and expression, yet it is tempered by the relaxed nature of his clothing and the slight smile playing on his lips. The portrait seems to capture a fleeting moment, preserving an impression of personality rather than merely documenting physical appearance.