Artwork

Unknown in blue shawl

Unknown in blue shawl, by Vladimir Borovikovsky, oil, 1798
Unknown in blue shawl, by Vladimir Borovikovsky, oil, 1798

Unknown in blue shawl is an oil painting by Vladimir Borovikovsky. It dates from 1798 and is held in the collection of the Tretyakov Gallery.

About this work

Overview

Unknown in blue shawl is a portrait painted by Vladimir Borovikovsky in 1798. It is an oil painting depicting an unidentified woman.

Subject & Meaning

The subject is a woman with dark, curly hair, wearing a white dress and a blue shawl, gazing directly at the viewer. Her attire and hairstyle convey elegance and refinement.

Technique & Style

Borovikovsky's use of oil paint achieves a sense of depth and texture. The dark background sets off the subject, emphasizing her presence.

History & Provenance

The painting is part of the Tretyakov Gallery's collection. Borovikovsky was a prominent Russian portraitist of Ukrainian Cossack descent who worked at Catherine the Great's court.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Vladimir Borovikovsky

Artist

Vladimir Borovikovsky

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.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Tretyakov Gallery open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.