The artwork “Portrait of actress Lyubov Sazonova-Shuvalova” is a creation of the artist Ilya Repin, dated 1899. This piece falls within the Realism art movement, which is known for its dedication to depicting subjects as they appear in everyday life without embellishment or interpretation. The genre of this particular piece is a portrait, focusing on the true representation of its subject.
The artwork portrays actress Lyubov Sazonova-Shuvalova in a half-profile view against a light, neutral background. The subject is elegantly dressed in a period-appropriate, high-neck beige blouse adorned with delicate buttons and a fine necklace that cascades down her chest. Her hair is arranged in an updo with what appears to be a decorative accessory, perhaps a flower, adding a touch of color.
Her gaze is directed off-canvas, suggesting a sense of contemplation or detachment. The light falls softly upon her face, highlighting her defined cheekbones and the thoughtful expression in her eyes. Repin’s brushwork is confident and fluid, capturing the textures of her attire and the softness of her hair with great skill. The artist’s signature and the date of the painting are prominently inscribed on the lower left, serving as a testament to the moment of the artwork’s creation.
