This print is a reproduction of an artwork created by the renowned Russian artist Ilya Efimovich Repin. The piece presents a compelling portrait of a man seated and engrossed in reading, holding an open book on his knees. To the right of the composition, a corner of a tabletop is visible, upon which more voluminous books are neatly arranged.

The color palette employed in the painting is dominated by muted tones, with the exception of the man's garments, which are rendered in bright red and blue. This contrast in colors serves to draw the viewer's attention to the central figure of the man and his intellectual pursuit.

Ilya Repin's mastery of realism is evident in his ability to capture his subjects in a remarkably lifelike manner while infusing his works with expressive and painterly qualities. His portraits, in particular, convey a deep sense of character and emotion, making them both visually striking and emotionally resonant.

Details:
Artist: After Ilya Efimovich Repin
Date: 1885
Medium: Print
Dimensions: Frame 23.5 x 19.5 inches; sight 19 x 15 inches
Condition Report: Overall good
Signature and Date: Located in the lower center

About the artist:
Ilya Yefimovich Repin (August 5, 1844 - September 29, 1930) was a prominent Russian painter renowned for his works featuring historical subjects. Born near Kharkov, Russia (now Kharkiv, Ukraine), Repin began his artistic journey as a student of icon painting under a mentor named Bunakov. In 1864, he furthered his artistic education by enrolling at the Academy of Fine Arts in St. Petersburg.

Repin's career saw him excel in history painting, and he gained recognition for the emotional power and dramatic impact of his works. In 1871, he received an academy scholarship that allowed him to travel to France and Italy, providing him with valuable artistic exposure. Upon his return to Russia, he devoted himself to history painting.

One of his most iconic works, "Volga Bargemen" (1873), exemplifies his penchant for stark realism and socially critical themes, setting a precedent for Socialist Realist painting in the Soviet Union. Repin's oeuvre is characterized by its gritty realism, sharp detail, and bold composition. He was also celebrated for his portrait paintings, capturing the essence of his contemporaries, including literary giant Leo Tolstoy and composer Modest Mussorgsky. His impact on the world of art, particularly in Russia, remains enduring and influential.