The artwork in question is a portrait entitled “Portrait of the author Ieronim Yasinsky,” completed by the artist Ilya Repin in 1910. This oil on canvas masterpiece is a part of the Realism art movement and measures 102.5 x 67 cm. It is a genre painting, more precisely a portrait, which captures the likeness and character of its subject, Ieronim Yasinsky.
The artwork depicts an elderly man with a robust white beard and mustache, suggesting wisdom and perhaps a life rich with experiences. In the portrait, the subject appears to be seated, with his body slightly turned towards the viewer while his gaze seems to be directed just off to the side, providing an introspective or contemplative quality to his demeanor. Repin has masterfully used a palette that emphasizes the texture of the author’s hair and beard, while the brushwork contributes to a sense of vitality and a directness that is typical of Repin’s portraiture. The subdued and neutral background allows the figure to stand out, focusing the viewer’s attention on the character and presence of Yasinsky.
Repin’s skill in capturing the intricate details of the subject’s facial features and the natural fall of light upon them is evident, as well as his ability to convey a sense of the person’s inner life. The portrait is a testament to Repin’s ability to infuse his subjects with psychological depth, a hallmark of his portraiture within the Realism movement.
