The artwork titled “Portrait of Professor Ivanov” was painted by the illustrious Russian artist Ilya Repin in 1882. This oil on canvas measures 58 by 48 centimeters and is a fine example of the Realism art movement. Repin’s portrait work is well-known for capturing not just the physical likeness but also the psychological subtleties of his subjects. The artwork can be viewed at the Finnish National Gallery in Helsinki, Finland, and falls into the genre of portraiture.
In this solemn portrait, the subject, Professor Ivanov, is depicted in a contemplative state. The professor is shown in profile, seated, with his hand resting against his cheek, suggesting deep thought or preoccupation. His gaze is directed off-canvas, which enhances the reflective mood of the artwork. The clothing of the subject, particularly his dark coat and cravat, is rendered with meticulous attention to the textures and folds, testament to Repin’s skill in portraying fabrics and surfaces.
The background of the portrait is subdued with a neutral color palette, which serves to draw the viewer’s attention to the subject. What can be discerned of the setting, particularly a decorative throw or covering with blue floral patterns just visible behind the subject, suggests a domestic interior with a degree of sophistication. The brushwork is both precise in the rendering of the figure and looser in the background, characteristics of Repin’s mastery in blending detail with broader, more impressionistic strokes. This duality contributes to the overall effect of the portrait, which is both poignant and lifelike, revealing Repin’s capacity to convey the inner life of the individuals he depicted.
