Who painted Portrait of Catherine Orlova (1758-1781)?

Portrait of Catherine Orlova (1758-1781) was painted by Fyodor Rokotov in 1790.

Where can I see Portrait of Catherine Orlova (1758-1781)?

Portrait of Catherine Orlova (1758-1781) is held by Tretyakov Gallery.

What movement is Portrait of Catherine Orlova (1758-1781)?

Portrait of Catherine Orlova (1758-1781) is associated with Rococo painting.

Artwork

Portrait of Catherine Orlova (1758-1781)

Fyodor Rokotov , 1790

Portrait of Catherine Orlova (1758-1781) is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Fyodor Rokotov. It dates from 1790 and is held in the collection of the Tretyakov Gallery.

About this work

Overview

Fyodor Rokotov’s oil portrait of Catherine Orlova, executed in 1790, presents a young woman seated before a dark backdrop. She is rendered with a luminous complexion, her brown hair gathered in an intricate updo, and dressed in a white gown accented by a red sash and a blue brooch. The composition balances a calm directness in her gaze with a subtle smile, creating an atmosphere of quiet poise.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter, identified as Ekaterina Zinovyeva, is historically recorded under the name Catherine Orlova. Her attire and composed expression suggest a genteel status, while the restrained elegance of the portrait reflects the ideals of feminine virtue and refinement prevalent among Russian aristocracy in the late eighteenth century.

Technique & Style

Rokotov employs a pronounced chiaroscuro, allowing the illuminated figure to emerge from the surrounding darkness. The delicate handling of light on skin and fabric, combined with the soft modeling of facial features, aligns the work with Rococo sensibilities, emphasizing grace and subtle ornamentation without excessive baroque drama.

History & Provenance

Born into serfdom in 1736, Rokotov secured his freedom in the late 1750s and was admitted as an Academician in 1765, after which his reputation as a portraitist grew. The painting entered the Tretyakov Gallery’s collection, where it remains on display, representing a key example of his mature portraiture.

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.