Letter to William Pope Sergey Sergeyevich Solomko (1867-1928)

The composition presents a striking juxtaposition of figures set against a stark, neutral background. On the left, a figure with long hair and a flowing robe extends his arms outwards, seemingly offering assistance or guidance. The posture suggests vulnerability and a willingness to bear weight, while the pale skin contrasts sharply with the darker tones surrounding him.
To the right stands an older man in formal attire – a dark coat adorned with elaborate embroidery and a prominent star-shaped insignia on his chest. He reaches out towards the figure on the left, his expression conveying a mixture of desperation and perhaps reluctant dependence. The rigidness of his posture contrasts with the fluidity of the other’s movement.
The artist employed a limited palette dominated by earth tones – ochres, browns, and creams – which contribute to a sense of solemnity and gravity. Light falls unevenly on the scene, highlighting certain areas while leaving others in shadow, further emphasizing the emotional weight of the interaction.
Accompanying this visual narrative is text printed in French. The title La lettre du Pape Benoit XV à Guillaume (The Letter from Pope Benedict XV to William) immediately introduces a historical and religious context. The accompanying excerpt speaks of destroying temples and provoking divine wrath, suggesting a commentary on conflict and its consequences.
Subtly, the image appears to be an allegorical representation of power dynamics and spiritual authority. The man in formal dress might symbolize political or secular leadership, while the figure offering assistance could represent faith or a higher moral order. The outstretched hands create a visual link between these two realms, implying a dependence on something beyond earthly control. The text reinforces this interpretation by connecting the scene to themes of religious transgression and divine retribution. Overall, the work conveys a sense of unease and impending doom, hinting at the fragility of human endeavors in the face of forces larger than themselves.