Artwork
Portrait of Pavel P. Turchaninov (1776-1839) (1st)
Portrait of Pavel P. Turchaninov (1776-1839) (1st) is an oil painting by the Russian Icon artist Unknown. It dates from 1824 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum. The work is an oil painting that depicts a man in a military uniform, shown from the chest upward and turned toward the left.
About this work
Overview
The work is an oil painting that depicts a man in a military uniform, shown from the chest upward and turned toward the left. He is set against a uniform light‑yellow background, his expression solemn and his hair cut short in gentle waves.
Subject & Meaning
The sitter is identified as Pavel P. Turchaninov (1776‑1839), a figure associated with the Russian military. His attire includes black fabric, gold‑trimmed epaulettes and an array of medals, underscoring rank and service. The restrained pose and serious countenance convey a formal, dignified representation typical of official portraiture.
Technique & Style
The artist employs chiaroscuro, using contrasts of light and shadow to model the figure’s facial features and the folds of the uniform, thereby imparting a three‑dimensional quality. The limited palette, dark uniform against a pale backdrop, focuses attention on the subject’s face and insignia.
Context
Portraits of this type were common in the late 18th and early 19th centuries for documenting military officers. The use of medals and elaborate epaulettes reflects contemporary conventions of displaying honor and status within the Russian Imperial armed forces.
Artist & collection
- Portrait of Andrey P. Turchaninov (1779 -1830) (2nd)
Portrait of Pavel A. Tuchkov (1775/76-1858) (3rd)
Portrait of Pavel A. Filisov (1769-1821)
Portrait of Mikhail M. Volkov (1776-1820)
Portrait of Paisy S. Kaisarov (1783-1844)
Portrait of Alexander E. Pyker (1776-1834)
Portrait of Andrey A. Zass (1776-1830) (2nd)
Portrait of Alexey S. Kologrivov (1776-1818)