Who painted Porträt des Varvara Obreskova (c.1745-1815)?

Porträt des Varvara Obreskova (c.1745-1815) was painted by Fyodor Rokotov in 1789.

Where can I see Porträt des Varvara Obreskova (c.1745-1815)?

Porträt des Varvara Obreskova (c.1745-1815) is held by Tretyakov Gallery.

What movement is Porträt des Varvara Obreskova (c.1745-1815)?

Porträt des Varvara Obreskova (c.1745-1815) is associated with Rococo painting.

Can I buy a print of Porträt des Varvara Obreskova (c.1745-1815)?

Museum-quality prints of Porträt des Varvara Obreskova (c.1745-1815) are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Porträt des Varvara Obreskova (c.1745-1815)

Fyodor Rokotov , 1789

Porträt des Varvara Obreskova (c.1745-1815) is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Fyodor Rokotov. It dates from 1789 and is held in the collection of the Tretyakov Gallery.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1789 by Fyodor Rokotov, this oil-on-canvas portrait depicts Varvara Obreskova. The composition places the sitter against a dark backdrop, her illuminated white dress and up‑styled dark hair drawing immediate focus. Rokotov’s handling of light emphasizes her calm gaze, which meets the viewer directly, while the visible brushwork adds a tactile quality to the surface.

Subject & Meaning

Varvara Obreskova is presented with a composed expression and a modestly ruffled collar, suggesting both refinement and restraint. The restrained pose and direct eye contact convey a sense of personal dignity, typical of Rokotov’s interest in capturing the inner character of his sitters rather than merely their outward status.

Technique & Style

Rokotov employs a Rococo sensibility, using soft chiaroscuro to model the figure against a deep, almost velvety background. The oil medium allows for delicate gradations of tone, while the slightly visible brushstrokes lend texture to the fabric and skin, reinforcing the painting’s tactile realism without sacrificing elegance.

History & Provenance

Born into serfdom in 1736, Rokotov bought his freedom in the late 1750s and rose to academic recognition by 1765. This portrait, part of his mature output, entered the Tretyakov Gallery’s collection, where it remains accessible to the public as a representative example of late‑18th‑century Russian portraiture.

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Artist & collection

Artist

Fyodor Rokotov

Fyodor Stepanovich Rokotov (Fedor Rokotov) (Russian: Фёдор Степа́нович Ро́котов; 1736 – December 24, 1808) was a Russian painter who specialized in portraits.