The artwork titled “Boy fellah” was created by the artist Ivan Bilibin in the year 1923. It is categorized as a portrait and contributes to the Art Nouveau (Modern) art movement. This piece represents a delicate intersection of personal representation and the stylistic elements prevalent in the early 20th century.
Upon examination of the artwork, one is immediately struck by the detailed rendering of the boy’s profile. It captures the youth’s distinctive features with a clear emphasis on the lines and contours of the face. The boy is depicted wearing a cap, and a notable characteristic is the mark on his cheek which could be cultural or a personal symbol. The shading technique used by the artist achieves a soft and subtle gradation of tones, imbuing the portrait with a sense of depth and realism; yet it maintains a delicate linearity that nods to the Art Nouveau penchant for stylized forms. The artwork’s composition focuses exclusively on the young boy’s profile, allowing the viewer to engage in a moment of contemplation on the subtle emotion captured in his expression. The boy’s gaze is directed outward, suggesting a thoughtful or introspective state, and his demeanor portrays a combination of youthfulness and solemnity.
There is a sense of quietude and stillness in the artwork, characteristic of formal portraiture of the period. Moreover, the rendering is executed with a fine level of craftsmanship, demonstrating Bilibin’s expertise and artistic sensitivity to his subject.
