The artwork “Portrait of E. Mamontova” is an oil on canvas painting by the distinguished artist Ilya Repin, created between the years 1878 and 1879. Measuring 73 by 59 centimeters, the portrait is a representation of the Realism art movement, a genre focused on the realistic depiction of subjects without artificiality and avoiding artistic conventions, implausible, exotic, and supernatural elements. The portrait is an exemplification of Repin’s capacity to capture the essence of his subjects through attentive observation and fine detail.
The artwork presents a seated female figure, presumably E. Mamontova, portrayed with a direct and calm gaze towards the viewer, suggesting a sense of poise and confidence. The subject is dressed in attire typical of the period, featuring a light-colored blouse with a high neck and a knot-tied, decorative scarf, which serves as a focal point in the composition. Her expression is serene and reflective, with a gentle smile that subtly plays about her lips.
Repin’s use of chiaroscuro is evident in the artwork, where the lighting on the figure’s face, hands, and the scarf provide a contrast to the darker, more muted tones of the background. This contrast serves to draw the viewer’s attention to the subject’s face and the intricate texture of the scarf, revealing Repin’s skill in rendering different fabrics and surfaces.
The artist’s signature, alongside the date of the work, is visible in the upper left corner of the painting, providing authenticity and a historical context for the piece. Repin’s ability to convey character and mood in his portraits is manifest in this painting, marking him as a master of the genre and an important figure in Realist art.
