Alexander Lensky as Petruchio in The Taming of the Shrew is an oil on canvas portrait painted by Ivan Kramskoi in 1883. The work depicts the actor Aleksandr Pavlovich Lensky in costume as Petruchio, a central character in Shakespeare’s comedy The Taming of the Shrew. Measuring 62 by 53.5 cm, the painting was created during a period when Kramskoi was recognized for his psychological insight in portraiture, and it is part of the collection of the Tretyakov Gallery (inventory Ж-279). The composition presents Lensky in a three-quarter view, dressed in a dark, ornate costume with a prominent gold and gemstone chain across his chest and a white ruffled collar.

His gloved right hand is visible, resting across his body, and his gaze is cast downward in a contemplative or introspective manner. The background is plain and light, focusing attention on the sitter’s expressive face and rich costume details. The brushwork is precise in the rendering of facial features and textures, characteristic of Kramskoi’s mature style. This portrait is held by the Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow.

It is one of several works by Kramskoi that document leading figures of Russian theatre in the late nineteenth century. The painting reflects the period’s interest in the performing arts and the close relationship between artists and actors in Russian cultural circles of the time.