The artwork titled “Portrait of Luiza Mersi D’arzhanto” is an oil on canvas creation by the esteemed Russian artist Ilya Repin, completed in the year 1890. Exemplifying the Realism movement, the portrait is notable for its meticulous depiction of the subject and the use of light. Measuring 85 by 100 centimeters, the piece is a representation of the genre of portraiture and currently resides in the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow, Russia.
In the artwork, the figure of Luiza Mersi D’arzhanto is portrayed lounging against a sumptuously patterned backdrop, likely indicative of an affluent setting. The subject is dressed in an off-white, possibly silky or satin gown that drapes elegantly across her form. Her attire is rich in texture and the light interacts dynamically with the ruffles and folds of the fabric. The woman’s relaxed posture and the candid expression captured on her face give the artwork a naturalistic quality that embodies the Realist movement. Her direct gaze towards the viewer suggests a confident and open demeanor.
Repin’s mastery in rendering the interplay of light and shadow is evident in the way the light seems to caress the subject’s red hair and the softness of her skin. The brushstrokes are both broad in the portrayal of the gown and intricate in the detailing of facial features and the lace pillow beside her. Repin’s technique provides a depth of character to the subject, suggesting not just her physical appearance but also hinting at her personality and social status. The subtle vibrancy of the colors and the keen observation of detail make this artwork a poignant study of the individual and her environment.
