Troika. Paper, 15, 7h31. 1865. GTG Vasily Perov (1833-1882)

The drawing presents a scene of urban life, rendered in a loose, sketch-like style with evident pencil strokes and tonal variations achieved through shading. Here we see three young boys clustered together, their expressions conveying a mixture of apprehension and curiosity. They are positioned slightly left of center, dominating the foreground. Their clothing appears worn and patched, suggesting a modest socioeconomic background.
Behind them, a dog bounds forward, seemingly startled or chasing something out of view. To the right, two figures strain to move a large barrel on what appears to be a makeshift cart; their posture indicates considerable effort. The backdrop is defined by an architectural structure – a tower with a distinctive pointed roof – and a series of buildings receding into the distance. These structures are rendered with less detail than the foreground elements, contributing to a sense of depth and establishing the setting as a town or city.
The composition directs attention towards the boys interaction. Their proximity suggests a shared experience or perhaps a protective dynamic within their group. The dog’s sudden movement introduces an element of dynamism and potential disruption into the otherwise static scene.
Subtleties in the drawing hint at broader social commentary. The depiction of labor, exemplified by the figures struggling with the barrel, alludes to the everyday toil that characterized life for many during this period. The boys expressions could be interpreted as a reflection of vulnerability or resilience within an urban environment marked by both opportunity and hardship. The tower in the background might symbolize authority or institutional power, looming over the lives of ordinary citizens.
The artist’s choice to utilize a relatively simple palette and loose rendering style lends the drawing a sense of immediacy and authenticity. It feels like a fleeting observation captured quickly on paper, offering a glimpse into a specific moment within a larger social context.