Silhouette. Types of Sketches Turgenev Burmistr 1883. Elizabeth Merkuryevna Boehm (Endaurova) (1843-1914)

The drawing presents a solitary figure rendered entirely in silhouette against a stark white background. The subject appears to be a man, positioned in profile facing left. His posture suggests contemplation or perhaps weariness; his head is bowed slightly, and his shoulders are rounded. A full beard obscures much of the lower portion of his face, contributing to an air of anonymity while simultaneously emphasizing age and experience.
The clothing details indicate a gentlemanly status – a coat with visible pockets and what appears to be a waistcoat beneath. The presence of objects hanging from his belt suggests he is either a traveler or someone engaged in a profession requiring tools or instruments. These items, though indistinct, add layers of potential narrative.
Below the figure’s feet lies a patch of stylized vegetation – grasses and small flowering plants – which grounds him within a natural setting. This placement contrasts with the formal attire, hinting at a connection between intellect and nature, or perhaps an individual who finds solace in the simplicity of the countryside.
The use of silhouette is significant. It eliminates specific details, transforming the subject into a symbolic representation rather than a portrait. The absence of light and shadow flattens the image, creating a sense of distance and abstraction. This technique allows for broader interpretations; the figure could represent any man of intellect or authority, embodying qualities such as wisdom, melancholy, or introspection.
The inscription at the bottom, written in an unfamiliar script, further complicates the interpretation. It seems to offer a description or epithet, but its meaning remains inaccessible without translation. This textual element suggests that the image is intended to convey something beyond what is immediately visible, inviting viewers to engage with the work on multiple levels and consider the identity of the person depicted.