The artwork “Portrait of the Singer Alexandra Molas” is an oil on canvas created by the artist Ilya Repin in 1883. This work belongs to the Realism art movement and falls under the genre of portraiture. It portrays the singer Alexandra Molas in a moment that captures her essence and individuality, a true representation of Repin’s mastery of realism and his ability to imbue his portraits with life and character.
The artwork presents a half-length depiction of Alexandra Molas, who stands against a muted and indistinct background that serves to focus attention on the subject herself. The singer is dressed in an elegant dark gown, enhanced with intricate lace frills at her collar and cuffs, hinting at her status and sophistication. Her attire is further accentuated by the rich textures and the meticulous rendering of light on the various fabrics, an indication of Repin’s skill in capturing such details.
Molas’ expression is one of pleasant approachability, with a hint of a smile curving her lips. Repin’s brushwork expertly conveys the softness of her skin and the lively sparkle in her eyes. Her hair is adorned with small red flowers matching the corsage at her chest, adding a splash of color that contrasts with her dark attire.
The opera singer holds a sheet of music, which is detailed enough to suggest her association with performing arts, but remains impressionistically vague so as not to detract from her as the central subject. This prop also subtly informs the viewer of her profession and love for music without the need for explicit annotation.
Repin’s signature and the year of completion are inscribed in the upper left corner, modestly positioned, yet legible, affirming the authenticity of the work. Overall, the portrait is a study in character portrayal, expertly executed by a master painter of the Realist movement.
