Silhouette. Types of Sketches Turgenev 1883 Kasian Swords from the Beautiful. 2 Elizabeth Merkuryevna Boehm (Endaurova) (1843-1914)

The drawing presents a solitary figure set against a dense backdrop of foliage. Here we observe a young girl, rendered entirely in silhouette, standing near what appears to be a tree or large shrub. She holds a small basket close to her body, its contents obscured by the stark contrast between light and dark. The posture suggests introspection; her head is bowed slightly, and she seems absorbed in something beyond the viewer’s perspective.
The surrounding vegetation dominates the composition. Its rendered with energetic, almost frantic lines that convey a sense of wildness and untamed nature. This dense growth partially obscures the girl, creating an atmosphere of enclosure or isolation. The foliage also serves to flatten the depth of field, emphasizing the two-dimensional quality of the work.
The inscription at the bottom indicates this is Annushka, daughter of Kalina. This textual element immediately introduces a narrative context, suggesting that the drawing is likely an illustration accompanying a literary work. Annushkas name and familial connection imply a story rooted in rural life or folklore.
Subtextually, the image evokes themes of childhood innocence, solitude, and perhaps a touch of melancholy. The silhouette technique removes any specific details about her appearance, transforming her into a universal symbol of youth and vulnerability. Her posture and the surrounding wilderness suggest a moment of quiet contemplation, possibly tinged with sadness or longing. The basket she carries could represent burdens, responsibilities, or simply the fruits of her labor.
The overall effect is one of understated emotional depth. The simplicity of the silhouette style allows for multiple interpretations, inviting viewers to project their own narratives onto the scene and consider the story behind Annushka’s quiet presence within this natural setting.