Description of the painting by Ilya Repin “Portrait of Mussorgsky”

Description of the painting by Ilya Repin Portrait of Mussorgsky

Portrait painted in 1881. It is no coincidence that this portrait stands out among the works of the artist. A well-known fact – the picture was created shortly before the composer’s death. Thanks to this important fact, the portrait fills a special drama and maximum depth. We see Mussorgsky, who is seriously ill. In his reddish face and brilliant eyes, the effect of the disease is felt. For the artist it is important face. That is why he seeks to attract our attention to him. It seems that he seeks to uncover the mystery of the composer’s skill. A beard, mustache and hair that is a little tousled cannot distract from the way Mussorgsky looks.

We can read in his expressive eyes an incredible longing and deepest sadness. But at the same time we have a person full of energy and strength. Repin specifically wrote a rather schematic wrote the clothes of the composer. These things are only needed to frame the face.

A special turn of the head, in which the call is felt, helps us to sense that Musorgsky did not give up and actively fought the disease to the last. As for the background, any details are missing. It seems that the composer is depicted on an unusual background of passing clouds. This allows you to create a sense of true greatness. Mussorgsky, like his works, is indomitable and unique.

There is music in his eyes. We can read it in them. In the same place, ideas that the composer did not manage to embody are concealed. The painter ineptly captures all the features of Mussorgsky, who keep the imprint of the disease. This is compensated by a clever and really delicate picture decision. The combination of a robe of crimson and green colors against a light shade is really impressive. The relief of wrinkles is smoothed by a bright light. The lip crease surprises with its touchingness. A man seems to be listening to himself. We feel how lonely and detached from the whole world. Repin created the most heartfelt portrait.


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Description of the painting by Ilya Repin “Portrait of Mussorgsky”