A realist portrait of the artist's mother, A.I. Kridener, painted by Vasily Perov in 1876.

Vasily Perov, a founding member of the Peredvizhniki (the Wanderers) movement, painted this portrait of his mother, A.I. Kridener, in 1876. Perov is recognised for his contribution to Russian realist painting, often focusing on social critique and the psychological depth of his subjects. This work demonstrates his ability to capture the quiet dignity of a sitter through a restrained, naturalistic approach.

The portrait depicts A.I. Kridener in a three-quarter view, dressed in dark, formal attire. The composition is understated, focusing the viewer's attention on the subject's facial expression and posture. Perov uses a muted colour palette, dominated by deep blacks, greys, and soft browns, which creates a sombre and reflective mood. The lace detailing at the collar and cuffs provides a subtle textural contrast to the heavy fabric of her garment. The background is indistinct, suggesting a shallow space that keeps the focus entirely on the figure.

Perov's technique here avoids unnecessary embellishment. He employs a controlled application of paint to render the soft contours of the face and the weight of the clothing. The lighting is soft and directional, modelling the subject's features with precision. This portrait is an example of the artist's mature style, where his earlier focus on narrative social commentary shifts toward a more intimate, observational mode of portraiture. The work remains a clear representation of the realist tradition in nineteenth-century Russian art, prioritising the honest depiction of the individual over idealisation. The signature and date are visible in the lower right corner, confirming the provenance of this piece within the artist's later career.