In Russia there is not all carp and brushes! Elizabeth Merkuryevna Boehm (Endaurova) (1843-1914)

The drawing presents two figures, seemingly children, rendered in a stark, monochromatic palette. They are positioned close together, their faces turned downwards and away from the viewer, conveying a sense of melancholy or resignation. The artist has emphasized their heavy-lidded eyes and downturned mouths, contributing to this overall feeling of dejection. Both individuals wear what appear to be fur caps, suggesting a cold climate or a deliberate attempt at portraying them as belonging to a specific cultural group.
The figures are framed within a roughly rectangular border, which isolates them from any discernible background, intensifying the focus on their expressions and posture. The artist’s use of hatching and cross-hatching creates texture and depth, particularly in the rendering of the fur caps and the shadows beneath their eyes. This technique also lends a sense of urgency or immediacy to the work.
Beneath the figures, handwritten script is visible. While the language is unfamiliar, its presence suggests that the image carries a symbolic meaning beyond the literal depiction of two children. The text appears to be integral to understanding the artwork’s message; it functions as a caption or commentary on the scene presented above.
The subtext likely revolves around themes of disappointment and disillusionment. The averted gazes and somber expressions suggest a loss of hope or an awareness of hardship. The presence of the inscription implies that this feeling is connected to a broader societal context, possibly referencing a lack of opportunity or resources within a particular nation. The children themselves may symbolize a generation burdened by circumstance, their potential stifled by prevailing conditions.