Reading. Portrait of Sofia Nikolaevna Kramskoy (1840-1919), the artist’s wife Ivan Kramskoy (1837-1887)

Description of Ivan Kramsky’s painting "At Reading" (1863)

The canvas belongs to the early stage of the artist’s work, but it already displayed many of his inherent distinctive features, which determined the painter’s style in the future. The portrait depicts the master’s wife, whose marriage was prosperous and harmonious. Kramskoy for many years maintained a sense of love, respect and affection for his wife and often painted her portraits.

The canvas depicts an enchanting young woman dressed in a beautiful fashionable dress. She is concentrated, leaning over a fairly large book, her expression is serious, her posture is relaxed. The heroine supports her head with one hand, leaning gracefully on the railing. The viewers can’t see her gaze, which sometimes characterizes a person, but they can determine her character. Kramskoy uses expressive coloring and light tones to show her tenderness, sensuality, and gentleness - all the qualities that he valued in her. But the image does not lose its dignity and spiritual power.

The composition of the portrait is decided quite plastic: the main character is in the garden or in the park on the stone bench against the background of the darkening greenery of trees. It is as if the portraitist has peeked at her secretly. Her delightful white dress seems to shine, contrasting with this background, casting the deepest glare on her calm, spiritual face. The artist painstakingly works out every detail: he realistically portrays her dark, shining, curly hair styled in an elegant hairdo, the expensive brooch on her dress, and the refined shawl hanging down from her shoulders.

The master depicted his beloved in pastel pencils, a technique which lends lightness, grace, and elegance to the picture. The nature of the portrait can be called a chamber and private. What is striking in the picture is her mood, which allows the artist to reveal the depth of the heroine’s spiritual life. The whole appearance of the wife is imbued with a unique refined aristocratism, which enhances the impression of the portrait.