Orphans in the cemetery. 1864 (q) H., m. 48h34. 8 RM (Perov q) Vasily Perov (1833-1882)

The composition presents two children huddled together in a desolate landscape. A young girl stands slightly ahead, her posture suggesting weariness and vulnerability. She is clad in simple, muted clothing – a dark dress and a headscarf that obscures much of her hair. Beside her, a boy clings to her side, his arm wrapped around her shoulders, seeking comfort or support. His attire mirrors hers in its somber tones and plainness.
The setting appears to be a snow-covered graveyard, evidenced by the tombstones visible in the background, partially obscured by falling snow. The sky is overcast, contributing to the overall atmosphere of gloom and despair. A sense of isolation pervades the scene; there are no other figures present, emphasizing the children’s abandonment and loneliness.
The artists use of color reinforces this mood. Predominantly cool tones – grays, blues, and whites – dominate the palette, creating a feeling of coldness and bleakness. The limited range of colors further underscores the poverty and hardship experienced by these children. Light is diffused and uneven, highlighting their faces while leaving much of the surrounding environment in shadow.
The childrens expressions are particularly poignant. The girl’s eyes convey a mixture of sadness and apprehension, while the boy’s face is shadowed, hinting at a quiet resilience born from necessity. Their physical closeness suggests a dependence on one another for survival and emotional support within an unforgiving world.
Subtly, the painting speaks to themes of poverty, neglect, and loss. The graveyard setting implies mortality and the fragility of life, while the children’s presence underscores the vulnerability of those left behind – orphans adrift in a society that seems indifferent to their plight. It is not merely a depiction of individual suffering but also a commentary on broader social issues prevalent during the period in which it was created.