Portrait of the poet Gabriel Romanovich Derzhavin Vladimir Borovikovsky (1757-1825)

The portrait presents a man seated at a writing desk, rendered in a style characteristic of late 18th-century European portraiture. He is positioned slightly off-center, facing forward with a direct gaze that establishes a connection with the viewer. The subject’s expression is one of thoughtful composure; theres an air of intelligence and perhaps a touch of self-awareness about him.
The man wears a dark blue coat, meticulously detailed to showcase its texture and cut – indicative of his social standing. A white shirt collar peeks out from beneath the jacket, adorned with a lace jabot, further emphasizing his refinement. A red sash or ribbon crosses his chest, bearing an elaborate order or medal, signifying official honors and membership in a prestigious organization. The powdered wig is neatly styled, a common feature of aristocratic male fashion during this period.
The setting is deliberately constructed to convey intellect and erudition. Behind the subject rises a bookcase filled with volumes, suggesting a man of letters and learning. A green curtain drapes the wall behind him, providing a contrasting backdrop that highlights his figure. The writing desk itself is laden with papers – presumably manuscripts or correspondence – and an inkwell accompanied by a quill pen lies within easy reach. These elements underscore his profession as a writer.
The lighting in the painting is carefully managed to draw attention to the subject’s face and chest, while leaving the background slightly darker. This technique creates depth and emphasizes the importance of the individual being portrayed. The artist has employed a relatively restrained palette, dominated by blues, whites, reds, and greens, which contributes to the overall sense of formality and dignity.
Subtly, the arrangement of objects on the desk suggests an active creative process interrupted – perhaps for the sake of this portrait. This implies that the subject is not merely presented as a static figure but as someone engaged in intellectual pursuits. The directness of his gaze, combined with the carefully chosen details of dress and setting, conveys a sense of authority and self-assuredness, suggesting a man who holds himself in high regard and expects to be regarded similarly by others.