Answer: direct characterization, describing her physical appearance.
In this excerpt, we discover the characteristics of Mme. Sofronie mainly due to direct characterization. In particular, the author concentrates on her personal appearance. We are told that Mme. Sofronie is "large, too white, chilly." This is an example of direct characterization. Indirect characterization, on the other hand, would most likely describe her by discussing her actions and personality.