The artwork titled “Portrait of Loris-Melikov,” created by Ivan Aivazovsky in 1888, is a work of Romanticism and belongs to the genre of portraiture. This piece is a formal depiction of a distinguished figure, characterized by the dignity and gravitas typical of Romantic portraits.
The artwork portrays a middle-aged man with a thoughtful expression and a neatly groomed, full beard and mustache. His attire is elaborate, featuring a dark military uniform adorned with numerous medals, ribbons, and insignias, signifying high rank and honor. Intricate gold epaulettes rest on his shoulders, and a white sash drapes over his chest, adding to the overall grandeur of his appearance. The background is understated in light shades, ensuring that the viewer’s focus remains on the subject. The precise and detailed brushwork captures the textures of the various elements, from the fabric and metal of the uniform to the sitter’s facial features and hair. The signature and date “1888” are visible in the bottom right corner, authenticating the artwork’s origin and date of creation.