Two hawks (Bashi-Bazouke). 1878-1879 Vasily Vereshchagin (1842-1904)

The composition presents a scene set within what appears to be a military encampment. A group of three men occupies the foreground, seated on the ground amidst a sandy expanse. They are dressed in distinctive attire – turbans adorn their heads, and they wear garments with elaborate embroidery, predominantly red and gold. Each man holds a hawk perched upon his gloved hand; these birds appear well-cared for and trained. The central figure’s gaze is directed downwards towards his bird, suggesting a moment of quiet contemplation or connection.
Behind the seated men, a row of large tents stretches into the background, indicating a sizable military presence. A soldier in uniform stands guard at some distance from the group, facing away from them and toward the viewer. His posture conveys vigilance, yet also a degree of detachment from the scene unfolding in the foreground. The sky is rendered with broad strokes of pale blue, contributing to an overall sense of spaciousness and openness.
The color palette is dominated by earth tones – ochres, browns, and tans – which evoke the arid landscape. The vibrant reds and golds of the men’s clothing provide a striking contrast against this muted backdrop, drawing attention to their figures and suggesting a certain status or significance.
Subtleties within the painting hint at complex themes. The juxtaposition of the relaxed posture of the men with the soldiers watchful stance creates an interesting tension – a sense of both camaraderie and potential conflict. The presence of the hawks themselves is symbolic; these birds are often associated with nobility, freedom, and keen observation – qualities that might be intended to reflect upon the character or role of the men depicted. The encampment setting suggests a period of transition or occupation, perhaps hinting at political or social unrest. Ultimately, the work seems to explore themes of tradition, power, and the relationship between individuals and larger societal forces.