Portrait of Princess Ekaterina Alekseevna Dolgorukaya Vladimir Borovikovsky (1757-1825)

The portrait presents a young woman in a three-quarter pose, her gaze directed slightly off-center with a contemplative expression. Her hair, styled in loose curls characteristic of the late eighteenth century, frames a face marked by delicate features and a subtle melancholy. The artist has rendered the skin tone with meticulous attention to detail, capturing both luminosity and a hint of vulnerability.
She is dressed in a white gown, partially obscured by a draped shawl of pale rose pink, tied at her shoulders with gold cords. A blue ribbon adorns the bodice, secured with an elaborate jeweled brooch that draws the eye towards the center of the composition. The jewelry itself suggests wealth and status, reinforcing the subject’s position within a privileged social stratum.
The background is deliberately softened, creating a sense of depth and distance. Hints of a landscape – a hazy sky and indistinct foliage – are visible through an archway or leafy bower, suggesting a connection to nature while maintaining focus on the figure. The muted greens and blues of the backdrop contrast with the warmer tones of her skin and clothing, further emphasizing her presence.
Resting upon a small table in front of her is a sheet of paper and a quill pen. This detail introduces an element of intellectualism or artistic pursuit; it implies that she engages in activities beyond mere social graces. The placement of the hand resting on the table, with fingers lightly touching the pen, conveys a sense of poised readiness – as if interrupted from a moment of reflection or creative endeavor.
The overall effect is one of restrained elegance and quiet introspection. While the opulent attire and jewelry denote her high standing, the somber expression and thoughtful pose suggest an inner life that transcends superficial appearances. The painting seems to explore themes of beauty, intellect, and perhaps even a subtle undercurrent of sadness or longing – a portrait not merely of status but also of character.