“Portrait of Karl Leberecht,” created by Angelica Kauffman in 1785, is a notable example of Neoclassical portraiture rendered in oil on canvas. This artwork measures 76 x 64 cm and is housed in the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia. Kauffman’s deft handling of the medium and adherence to the principles of Neoclassicism are evident in this composition, aligning with her reputation for creating refined and sophisticated portraits.
The artwork features a half-length portrayal of a man dressed in 18th-century attire, characterized by a red garment adorned with fur trim, indicative of the period’s clothing style. The subject is captured seated with a composed expression, holding a palette and a paintbrush, suggesting his association with the arts. The background is muted, allowing the figure to stand out prominently, thereby directing the viewer’s attention to the subject’s face and attire. The detailed rendering of textures, such as the softness of the fur and the clarity of the fabric, demonstrates Kauffman’s exceptional skill and meticulous attention to detail, hallmarks of the Neoclassical movement.
