Портрет М.А. Голицыной. 1829 (неизв) Mikhail Terebenev (1795-1866)

The portrait presents a woman in what appears to be a formal setting, likely within a domestic interior given the muted background. She is positioned centrally and occupies nearly the entire frame, emphasizing her importance as the subject of the work. The composition adheres to traditional portraiture conventions, with the figure facing forward and directed towards the viewer.
The artist has rendered the woman’s features with considerable detail, capturing a sense of maturity and perhaps even weariness in her expression. Her gaze is direct but not overtly engaging; it suggests a quiet dignity rather than an invitation to intimacy. The skin tones are carefully modeled, conveying a subtle play of light and shadow that adds depth to the face.
The woman’s attire is particularly noteworthy. She wears a dark, high-necked gown, likely black velvet, which contrasts sharply with the elaborate headwear. This headdress consists of layers of lace, ribbons, and what appears to be feather ornamentation in shades of red and white. The richness of the fabrics and the intricacy of the design suggest considerable wealth and social standing. A decorative order or medal hangs from a ribbon at her chest, further reinforcing this impression. The embroidery on the sleeves adds another layer of visual complexity and denotes refined taste.
Color plays a significant role in establishing the mood and conveying meaning. The dominance of dark tones – black velvet, muted browns in the background – is punctuated by the vibrant red accents in the headdress and shawl. This contrast draws attention to these elements while also creating a sense of formality and restraint.
Subtly, the portrait conveys an impression of established social position and perhaps even a certain melancholy or introspection. The elaborate costume could be interpreted as a symbol of status and adherence to societal expectations, while the woman’s expression hints at a more complex inner life. The overall effect is one of quiet authority and understated elegance, characteristic of aristocratic portraiture from the early 19th century.