Letter home (Letter to the mother). 1901 Vasily Vereshchagin (1842-1904)

The composition presents a scene within what appears to be a hospital ward. A patient lies in a bed, his face obscured by bandages, suggesting injury or illness. He rests with his head turned slightly towards the viewer, yet remains largely withdrawn into himself. Beside him stands a woman dressed as a nurse; her uniform is pristine white and marked with a red cross on her sleeve, signifying her role within a medical institution. She holds a writing tablet and pen, poised to record something dictated by the patient.
The artist has chosen an oval format for this work, which concentrates attention upon the central figures and creates a sense of intimacy, as if the viewer is privy to a private moment. The starkness of the room contributes to the overall mood; the walls are plain, painted in muted tones, with minimal ornamentation. A single light fixture hangs from the ceiling, casting a soft illumination that emphasizes the pale complexion of both figures and highlights the clinical environment.
The subtext of this painting revolves around themes of suffering, communication, and care. The patient’s obscured face evokes vulnerability and isolation, while his reliance on the nurse for correspondence underscores his dependence and diminished agency. The nurses attentive posture and focused gaze suggest empathy and a commitment to providing comfort and support. Her role is not merely functional; she acts as an intermediary, facilitating connection between the patient and his family – specifically, his mother.
The act of writing itself becomes symbolic – a lifeline connecting the individual to the world beyond the confines of illness and institutional care. The painting speaks to the emotional toll of separation and the importance of human connection in times of hardship. It is a quiet portrayal of resilience and compassion within a setting defined by pain and uncertainty.