The artwork “Portrait of N.V. Delyarov” was created by the renowned artist Ilya Repin in 1910. As part of the Realism art movement, this portrait exemplifies the genre, capturing the depicted individual with both technical skill and an attention to depicting the subject matter authentically.
In the artwork, one observes the bust of a bearded gentleman, his visage rendered with a vigor that suggests both his character and physicality. The brushstrokes are confident and textural, contributing to the lifelike representation that defines the Realist movement. Repin’s use of color is vibrant and dynamic, with reds and flesh tones dominating. The subject’s attire implies a level of sophistication, and despite the seemingly informal brushwork, there is a strong sense of the subject’s presence and individuality.
The face of the man is highly expressive, showing a solemn and possibly contemplative demeanor. His eyes are thoughtful, perhaps gazing into the distance, capturing the viewer’s attention and inviting contemplation about the subject’s inner world. The background remains loosely defined, serving to support the central figure and allowing him to be the focal point of the composition. The signature of the artist, “I.Repin,” is clearly visible in the lower right corner, alongside the year of the painting’s completion.
Overall, the artwork embodies the Realist intent to portray subjects in a truthful, non-idealized manner, while also showcasing the artist’s ability to translate robust, physical reality onto the canvas with technical finesse and emotional depth.
