Whos Who beat. Elizabeth Merkuryevna Boehm (Endaurova) (1843-1914)

Here we observe a drawing depicting two young boys in profile, their faces turned towards one another in what appears to be a moment of quiet contemplation or perhaps nascent conflict. The composition is tightly framed, focusing almost entirely on the upper bodies and heads of the figures, which are adorned with elaborate, fur-trimmed headwear suggestive of historical or folkloric significance.
The artist employed a muted palette dominated by earthy tones – browns, grays, and blacks – contributing to an atmosphere of somberness and perhaps hinting at a narrative rooted in hardship or tradition. The rendering is loose and expressive; details are suggested rather than meticulously defined, lending the figures a sense of immediacy and vulnerability. Noticeable brushstrokes create texture and depth, particularly on the fur caps, which appear almost tangible.
The boys’ expressions are difficult to decipher definitively. One boys gaze seems directed at his companion with an intensity that could be interpreted as curiosity or challenge. The other appears more withdrawn, his profile angled slightly away, suggesting a degree of hesitation or perhaps even apprehension. This ambiguity invites multiple readings; the scene might represent a budding rivalry, a shared secret, or simply two children lost in their own thoughts.
The inscription at the bottom, Кто кого побьёт (Kto kogo pobyet), which translates to “Who will beat whom?”, provides a crucial contextual clue. It suggests that the interaction between the boys is charged with an underlying tension, hinting at a potential confrontation or competition. This textual element elevates the drawing beyond a simple portrait of childhood; it introduces a narrative thread concerning power dynamics and social hierarchies.
The overall effect is one of quiet drama, imbued with a sense of historical weight and psychological complexity. The artist has captured not just the physical likeness of two boys but also a fleeting moment of human interaction laden with unspoken meaning.