Artwork
Porträt der Ekaterina Vasilievna Torsukova (1772-1842)
Porträt der Ekaterina Vasilievna Torsukova (1772-1842) is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Vladimir Borovikovsky. It dates from 1798 and is held in the collection of the Tretyakov Gallery.
About this work
Overview
Vladimir Borovikovsky’s 1798 oil portrait presents Ekaterina Vasilievna Torsukova, a contemporary figure of the Russian aristocracy. Executed on canvas, the work now belongs to the collection of the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow. The painting reflects the artist’s prominence in late‑imperial portraiture, where he combined courtly conventions with a refined, personal approach to likeness.
Subject & Meaning
Ekaterina Vasilievna Torsukova is shown in a white gown edged with gold, a red shawl draped over her shoulders, and a modest headband. She holds a small, unidentified object in her right hand, a common device in portraiture to suggest status or personal interest. The composition conveys a poised, genteel presence appropriate to a woman of her social standing.
Technique & Style
Borovikovsky employs a Rococo sensibility, evident in the delicate coloration and graceful rendering of fabrics. Subtle chiaroscuro models the figure against a dark backdrop, allowing the illuminated dress to emerge with depth. A hint of foliage on the left side adds a naturalistic touch while maintaining the overall elegance of the scene.
History & Provenance
The portrait entered the Tretyakov Gallery’s holdings during the museum’s early acquisitions of Russian art, where it remains on display. Its documented history traces back to the artist’s studio in the late 1790s, with no recorded changes of ownership before its inclusion in the state collection.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Vladimir Lukich Borovikovsky (August 4 1757 – April 18 1825) was a Russian artist of Ukrainian Cossack origin. He served at the court of Catherine the Great and dominated portraiture in Russia at the turn of the 19th century.
Portrait of Grand DuchessYelena Pavlovna
Portrait of Pavel Masyukov, the Cavalry Captain of the Life-Guards Hussar Regiment
Portrait of a young man
Portrait of Gavrila Derzhavin
"Portrait of Alexander Labzin" (1766-1825)
Portrait of Paul I’s daughter – Helena
Catherine II during a walk in the Tsarskosyelsky Park
Portrait of Sergei Yakovlev
