Declaration of Love Sergey Sergeyevich Solomko (1867-1928)

The composition presents a tender moment between two figures set against a muted, atmospheric background. A man leans in towards a woman, his face positioned close to her cheek as if offering a gentle caress or whisper. The woman, adorned with an elaborate headdress and traditional attire, clasps her hands together in front of her, her gaze directed downwards, suggesting modesty or perhaps shyness.
The figures are accompanied by a dog, seated attentively at their feet. Its presence contributes to the overall sense of domesticity and intimacy within the scene. The dog’s posture – alert yet relaxed – implies a shared comfort and belonging among the three subjects.
The background is rendered with soft washes of color, creating an impressionistic effect that obscures specific details. A solitary bird appears in the upper portion of the composition, adding a subtle element of freedom or aspiration to the otherwise grounded scene.
Color plays a significant role; the woman’s attire features pale blues and whites contrasted against the mans darker green jacket and red sash. This color differentiation subtly highlights their individual identities while simultaneously emphasizing their closeness. The muted palette contributes to an overall feeling of nostalgia and quiet sentimentality.
The artist seems interested in portraying not just a declaration of affection, but also the cultural context surrounding it. The traditional clothing suggests a specific regional or historical setting, hinting at customs and values that inform this intimate interaction. There is a sense of reverence for tradition interwoven with the personal expression of love.