Artwork
Portrait of Andrey A. Zass (1776-1830) (2nd)

Portrait of Andrey A. Zass (1776-1830) (2nd) is an oil painting by the Realist artist Unknown. It dates from 1824 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum. The work is an oil portrait of Andrey A.
About this work
Overview
The work is an oil portrait of Andrey A. Zass, a man who lived from 1776 to 1830. He is shown in a dark military uniform accented with red and gold trimming, a wide fur‑lined collar, and a series of medals affixed to his chest. The background is a plain, light tone that isolates the figure, emphasizing his solemn expression and neatly styled dark hair.
Subject & Meaning
Zass’s attire and the presence of multiple decorations indicate a senior position within the armed forces, likely reflecting his status and achievements. The direct gaze and restrained demeanor convey a sense of authority and composure, typical of formal military portraiture intended to document rank and personal virtue.
Technique & Style
The painter employs chiaroscuro, using strong contrasts of light and shadow to model Zass’s facial features, creating a three‑dimensional effect. The smooth handling of oil paint renders the fabric’s texture and the metallic sheen of the medals, while the muted background prevents visual competition, focusing attention on the sitter.
History & Provenance
Created as a second version of the portrait, the painting dates from the early nineteenth century, contemporaneous with Zass’s lifetime. It has remained within collections that document Russian military figures of the period, though specific ownership details beyond its identification as a second iteration are not recorded in the available sources.
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