Portrait of Prince Alexander Mikhailovich Golitsyn Dmitry Levitsky (Levitzky) (1735-1822)

The composition presents a man in formal attire, positioned slightly off-center within the frame. He is depicted in a three-quarter pose, his body angled towards the viewer while his gaze directs outward, suggesting both engagement and a degree of detachment. The subject’s posture conveys an air of relaxed authority; one hand rests casually on a table laden with writing implements, while the other extends slightly as if offering or gesturing.
The color palette is dominated by warm tones – the russet hue of his coat contrasts with the cool blues of the sash and order ribbon adorning his chest. The white powdered wig, a hallmark of aristocratic fashion, provides a visual lightness that balances the richness of the clothing. Careful attention has been paid to rendering textures: the sheen of the fabric, the softness of the hair, and the smooth surface of the marble bust in the background all contribute to a sense of tangible reality.
To the subject’s left stands a table supporting an inkwell, quill pen, and scattered papers – elements that imply intellectual pursuits or administrative responsibilities. Adjacent to this is a sculpted bust, likely representing a historical figure or ancestor, which serves as a visual link to lineage and tradition. The placement of the bust behind the man suggests respect for the past while simultaneously emphasizing his present prominence.
The background is deliberately blurred, creating depth and drawing focus onto the central figure. A glimpse of an ornate chair hints at the opulence of the setting without distracting from the subject’s presentation. The lighting is soft and diffused, highlighting facial features and contributing to a sense of idealized portraiture characteristic of the period.
Subtly, the painting conveys themes of power, intellect, and heritage. The mans attire signifies his high social standing, while the writing implements suggest an engagement with knowledge or governance. The bust reinforces the importance of ancestry and tradition within this individual’s identity. Overall, the work aims to portray a man of considerable status, demonstrating both personal refinement and connection to established institutions.