Measures 15" x 19" with the frame, visible image size 11" x 15". The canvas is stretched on a piece of plywood. The artist did not spare paint so that, with the texture of canvas completely covered, it looks as if the portrait is painted on a wooden panel.

In very good to excellent condition. The painting shows mild craquelure but no chipping, no missing paint. The frame appears to be original, definitely of the period, and in excellent condition structurally. It is straight and rigid, reinforced with plywood triangles in the back. The hanging cord also appears to be original, a length of rope made of natural hemp fiber. There are traces of a minor old wood-burring insects infestation at the lower right-hand corner on the back of the frame, inactive at present.

This portrait appears to be the work of a talented amateur as the image does not strictly match any of the state-approved visages of the Great Leader. But, most of all because Stalin looks tense and alarmed. An officially sanctioned portrait by a professional artist state-licensed to paint the god of the Communist Pantheon, could not possibly express tension, anxiety or, God forbid, alarm in his face.

Please note that the medal in our photo is for size reference.