The artwork “Portrait of Maria Artsybasheva” is a pencil drawing by the distinguished artist Ilya Repin, created in the year 1880. It measures 35 cm by 26 cm and is executed in the Realism art movement. The piece is a portrait, a genre in which Repin excelled, capturing the essence and character of his subjects with remarkable skill.
The portrait depicts a woman in profile, facing toward the left of the artwork. Her expression is contemplative and serene, with a hint of pensiveness. There is a softness to her features, yet a strength is evident in her gaze. The woman’s attire is detailed, featuring traditional elements that suggest a cultural or regional significance. The precision of the pencil work in capturing the textures of her clothing and the intricate adornments around her neck demonstrate Repin’s mastery of his medium. The detailed shading and the use of light and dark contrast in the artwork draw attention to the woman’s face, ultimately highlighting her calm and thoughtful demeanor. Repin’s signature can be seen at the bottom right, adding a touch of authenticity to the work. Overall, the artwork is a fine example of Repin’s ability to convey personality and depth through portrait drawing within the Realist tradition.
