Stage director vsevolod meyerhold Alexander Golovin (1863-1930)

The portrait presents a man seated in what appears to be a theatrical setting, his gaze directed towards the viewer with an intensity that suggests both scrutiny and self-awareness. He is clad in a white shirt, partially unbuttoned at the collar, paired with a black bow tie – a formal touch juxtaposed against the casualness of the attire. A vibrant red cap sits firmly upon his head, drawing immediate attention to his baldness, which contributes to an overall impression of austere intellectualism.
The artist has employed a palette dominated by whites and creams, lending a sense of coolness and detachment to the figure. The background is rendered in loose brushstrokes, suggesting a draped curtain adorned with stylized floral motifs – a visual cue hinting at the world of performance. These patterns are not realistically depicted but rather serve as decorative elements that frame the subject.
The man’s hands are clasped loosely in his lap, their position conveying a sense of contained energy and perhaps even restraint. The facial features are sharply defined: high cheekbones, a prominent nose, and deeply set eyes contribute to an expression that is at once serious and somewhat melancholic. Theres a subtle asymmetry to the face, which adds complexity to the portrayal, preventing it from becoming overly idealized.
Subtly, the painting seems to explore themes of authority and theatricality. The red cap could be interpreted as a symbol of leadership or perhaps a deliberate affectation – a costume worn both on and off stage. The man’s direct gaze challenges the viewer, inviting an assessment that extends beyond mere physical appearance. It suggests a figure who is accustomed to being observed, analyzed, and judged – someone comfortable in the spotlight yet also aware of its potential for scrutiny.
The overall impression is one of controlled formality combined with underlying vulnerability, hinting at a complex personality operating within a world of artifice and performance.