The artwork entitled “Kubana” was created by the distinguished Russian artist Ilya Repin in the year 1883. This piece is characteristic of the Realism art movement and is primarily a portrait. Measuring modestly at 23 x 14 cm, “Kubana” can be viewed in person at its residence in the Tretyakov Gallery, located in Moscow, Russia.
The artwork captures the visage of a female subject, portrayed with attention to the nuances of her facial expressions and the textures of her attire. Repin’s skillful use of shading and line work gives the portrait a sense of depth and three-dimensionality. The subject’s gaze does not confront the viewer directly but seems to be directed slightly to the side, conveying a candid and informal quality typical of Repin’s portrait sketches.
Her dress appears dark and richly ornamented, suggesting a sense of cultural heritage or personal significance, perhaps relevant to the title “Kubana,” which may indicate a geographical or ethnic reference. The artist’s mastery over the medium is evident in the rendering of the subject’s hair and the intricate details of her attire, including what appears to be a necklace or some form of traditional adornment around her neck.
Repin’s signature and annotations grace the upper right corner, offering both authentication and a personal touch that connects the artist to his work. This sketch, while small in dimensions, is rich in texture and reveals Repin’s adept ability to convey character through swift yet deliberate strokes.
