A girl with flowing hair. Baby's head 1807

Orest Kiprensky created these sketches, A Girl with Flowing Hair and Baby's Head, using graphite. Kiprensky, born out of wedlock during a time of rigid social structures in Russia, was later legitimized by his father, a landowner. These drawings offer a glimpse into the artist's world, capturing intimate moments of childhood. The delicate rendering of the girl's downcast gaze and the soft contours of the baby's head evoke tenderness. Considering Kiprensky's own complex familial background, these works may be seen as exploring themes of identity, belonging, and the delicate nature of early life. The choice to depict his subjects in profile adds to the sense of introspection, inviting us to contemplate their inner worlds and personal stories. We are left to reflect on the unspoken narratives that shape our understanding of ourselves and others.