Portrait of the Author Mikhail Saltykov-Shchedrin 

"Portrait of the Author Mikhail Saltykov-Shchedrin" is a realist portrait of the famous Russian writer and satirist. Painted by Nikolai Ge, a celebrated Russian artist of the 19th century, the artwork depicts Saltykov-Shchedrin seated and gazing directly at the viewer. His stern expression and furrowed brow hint at his critical and satirical views. The dark background and the somber color palette emphasize the subject's serious demeanor, conveying a sense of introspection and intellectual depth. The detail in his hands and the realistic portrayal of his features demonstrate Ge's masterful skills as a portraitist.