Silhouette. A page from the book. Proverbs in the silhouettes, 1884 1 Elizabeth Merkuryevna Boehm (Endaurova) (1843-1914)

The drawing presents a stark visual narrative rendered entirely in silhouette against a vast, featureless expanse. Three distinct scenes unfold within this limited space. The upper scene depicts a youthful figure, seemingly a boy, engaged in playful interaction with what appears to be a small dog. He raises an arm, perhaps gesturing or offering something, while the dog leaps towards him. A sense of carefree movement and vitality is conveyed through this dynamic pose.
Below this, a solitary figure stands holding a flag aloft. The posture suggests authority or leadership, although the anonymity afforded by the silhouette prevents any specific identification. This individual appears isolated within the composition, set apart from the playful energy above.
The final scene mirrors the first in its depiction of a boy and dog, but introduces a more formal element: the figure is now wearing what seems to be military attire, including a distinctive hat. The dog stands attentively at his feet, reinforcing an impression of discipline and order.
Beneath these scenes, Cyrillic text is inscribed. While the precise meaning requires translation, its placement directly beneath the imagery suggests it serves as a key to understanding the narrative being presented. It likely functions as a proverb or saying that encapsulates the themes explored visually.
The absence of detail within the silhouettes contributes significantly to the work’s ambiguity and universality. The lack of specific features allows for multiple interpretations; the figures could represent individuals, archetypes, or even symbolic representations of broader societal roles. The stark contrast between light and dark amplifies this effect, creating a sense of drama and emphasizing the essential elements of each scene.
The overall impression is one of transition – a progression from youthful playfulness to assumed authority, potentially hinting at themes of growth, responsibility, and the passage of time. The repeated motif of the boy and dog suggests a recurring element within this narrative arc, perhaps symbolizing loyalty, companionship, or the enduring nature of certain values across different stages of life.