Naushnitsa. Before the storm. Lithography Vasily Perov (1833-1882)

The lithograph presents a scene of tense interaction between two women within a domestic setting. Here we observe a seated figure, presumably a woman of some status given her attire and posture, positioned in a large, upholstered armchair. Her expression is one of pronounced displeasure; the mouth is drawn into a severe line, and the eyes convey an air of suspicion or disapproval. She leans heavily on a walking stick, suggesting either physical infirmity or perhaps a deliberate display of authority.
Standing beside her is another woman, whose posture indicates she is speaking directly to the seated figure. The second woman’s face is partially obscured, but her proximity and gesture – leaning in close as if confiding something – suggest an intimate relationship, possibly that of servant or confidante. Her expression remains largely unreadable, though a slight upturn at the corner of her mouth hints at amusement or perhaps veiled mockery.
The artist has employed strong contrasts in shading to emphasize the emotional weight of the moment. The seated woman is rendered with particularly dark and agitated lines, amplifying her sense of unease. The armchair itself appears almost oppressive, its bulk contributing to a feeling of confinement and discomfort. A small box rests on the floor near the chair; its contents are indiscernible but it adds to the impression of a carefully curated environment.
Subtly, the work seems to explore themes of power dynamics and social hierarchy. The seated woman’s posture and expression suggest a position of dominance, while the standing figures proximity implies a complex relationship – one that might involve deference but also potential resentment or manipulation. The overall atmosphere is charged with unspoken tension; it suggests a moment poised on the brink of conflict, hinting at secrets and concealed agendas within this seemingly ordinary domestic scene. The lithographic technique itself lends a certain formality to the depiction, reinforcing the sense of social ritual and restraint.