The artistic undertaking
Developed over nearly five years, the work brings the guild’s optical method to a portrait whose effect depends on small transitions. The aim is a continuous pictorial space, with no visible brushstroke marks interrupting the modelling of the face and the surrounding forms.
Light fabric must remain light while revealing folds and depth. Skin, jewellery and foliage require different visual qualities without becoming detached details. Close-up recordings make it possible to inspect these relationships. A separate archival recording documents the application of the final varnish.
Look closely
Follow the movement of light across the face and neck.
Compare the pale fabric with the blue sash and the shadows within its folds.
Look at the hand, the jewellery and the plant details around the figure.
The work and its value
This is a principal work of the collection. Its value is rooted in prolonged refinement, the master’s involvement and the quality of the guild’s painted interpretation. Borovikovsky’s composition remains the historical point of departure; the contemporary painting has its own material presence and history of making.
Created by the guild under the artistic direction of Leonid Lukin, with the master’s final artistic review.
From the workshop archive
These photographs and recordings document stages and details of the work. Lighting and camera conditions vary between recordings.