Portrait of Prince Alexander Sergeevich Dolgorukov (1769-1829) Vladimir Borovikovsky (1757-1825)

The portrait presents a man in formal military attire, positioned three-quarter length against a dark, indistinct background. He is seated at a table strewn with papers and writing implements, though his attention remains directed outward, toward the viewer. The lighting emphasizes his face and chest, creating a sense of immediacy and prominence.
His expression is complex; it conveys both authority and a certain weariness. There’s an element of guardedness in his gaze, suggesting a man accustomed to scrutiny and responsibility. The slight downturn of his mouth hints at introspection or perhaps even melancholy. His skin tone appears somewhat ruddy, possibly indicating exposure to the elements or a life lived actively.
The elaborate uniform is rendered with meticulous detail. A red sash crosses his chest, secured by an ornate order – its insignia clearly visible as a central element of the composition. Gold epaulettes and braiding adorn the dark blue jacket, signifying high rank within the military hierarchy. The presence of these symbols underscores his status and position within society.
The table setting contributes to the subtext of the portrait. The scattered papers suggest intellectual pursuits or administrative duties – perhaps hinting at a man engaged in matters beyond purely martial concerns. The pen and dividers held in his hand further reinforce this impression, implying an engagement with both writing and possibly surveying or mapmaking. This combination of military bearing and scholarly tools suggests a multifaceted individual, one who embodies both strength and intellect.
The artist’s choice to depict the man seated at a table, rather than standing in a more heroic pose, introduces a note of quiet dignity. It avoids overt displays of power, instead presenting a figure engaged in the everyday tasks associated with his position. The muted color palette – dominated by dark blues, reds, and browns – contributes to a sense of gravitas and seriousness.
The powdered wig, typical for the period, is neatly styled but shows signs of age, further reinforcing the impression of a man who has lived a full life. Overall, the portrait conveys an image of a distinguished individual, balancing military authority with intellectual pursuits, and bearing the weight of responsibility with quiet dignity.