A post will holiday! There was sorrow, there will be a joy! Elizabeth Merkuryevna Boehm (Endaurova) (1843-1914)

The composition presents a young child seated at a simple wooden table. The figure is positioned centrally within the frame, drawing immediate attention. The childs posture conveys a sense of melancholy; their head rests on folded arms, and the gaze appears directed downwards, suggesting introspection or sadness. A bowl containing what seems to be porridge sits before them, accompanied by a spoon and a single potato – elements that imply a modest, perhaps even meager, sustenance.
The color palette is muted, dominated by earthy tones of brown, beige, and pale blue. This restrained use of color contributes to the overall somber mood. The background is indistinct, fading into a soft gradient which prevents distraction from the central figure. A decorative element, resembling an ornate scroll or bracket, appears on the left side, its design contrasting with the simplicity of the scenes other components.
The handwritten text surrounding the child reinforces the emotional narrative. Phrases speak of sorrow preceding joy, hinting at a cyclical nature of hardship and happiness. The juxtaposition of this textual promise against the child’s evident dejection creates a poignant tension. It suggests that even amidst present suffering, hope for future contentment remains.
Here we see an exploration of themes related to childhood, poverty, and resilience. The artist seems interested in portraying not just the immediate experience of sadness but also the underlying belief in eventual betterment – a sentiment likely intended to offer comfort or encouragement to the viewer. The work’s simplicity and directness lend it a sense of sincerity and emotional accessibility.