KORZUKHIN Alexei – Separation 900 Classic russian paintings

The composition presents a domestic scene steeped in melancholy and impending departure. Here we observe a young boy, dressed in a military uniform, engaged in a hushed conversation with a woman who appears to be his mother. Their faces are close, suggesting intimacy and shared sorrow; the boy’s gaze is directed downwards, while the womans eyes are moist, hinting at suppressed emotion. A small hat lies discarded near their feet, symbolizing the abruptness of the separation.
To the left stands an older woman, presumably a family servant or relative, her expression conveying a mixture of sympathy and resignation. She holds a large bag, likely containing belongings for the boy’s journey, reinforcing the theme of departure. Her posture is slightly hunched, suggesting a burden both physical and emotional.
On the right side of the room sits a man, presumably the boys father or guardian. He is positioned in a chair, his body angled away from the central figures, creating a sense of distance and detachment. His hand rests on a newspaper, an attempt at maintaining composure amidst the palpable sadness. The placement of this figure suggests a reluctance to fully participate in the emotional farewell.
The interior setting itself contributes significantly to the overall atmosphere. The room is richly decorated with patterned wallpaper, ornate furniture, and framed portraits hanging on the wall. These details suggest a comfortable, established household, making the impending separation all the more poignant. The light source appears to be coming from an unseen window, illuminating the central figures while casting shadows in the background, further emphasizing their isolation.
Subtly, the painting explores themes of duty, familial obligation, and the pain of parting. The boy’s military uniform signifies a societal expectation – a call to service that necessitates leaving behind loved ones. The womans grief underscores the personal cost of this obligation. The man’s detachment may represent an inability or unwillingness to confront the emotional toll of the situation, or perhaps a stoic acceptance of circumstance. Ultimately, the work captures a moment of profound sadness and transition within a family facing separation.