Rusa curls hundred rubles. Elizabeth Merkuryevna Boehm (Endaurova) (1843-1914)

Here we observe a portrait executed in oil on paper, characterized by a loose and rapid application of paint. The subject is a young man depicted from the chest upwards, turned slightly towards the viewer. He wears a distinctive fur hat – bright red with white trim – and an elaborate coat featuring vertical rows of what appear to be silver or light-colored buttons against a greyish background, accented by a dark red belt. His expression is one of studied nonchalance; his gaze directed just beyond the frame, suggesting a certain self-assurance and perhaps even amusement.
The artist’s handling of paint contributes significantly to the overall impression. Brushstrokes are visible and energetic, creating a sense of immediacy and capturing fleeting qualities of light and shadow. The background is indistinct, rendered in dark tones that serve to isolate the figure and emphasize his presence. Theres an intentional lack of detail; features are suggested rather than precisely defined, contributing to a feeling of spontaneity.
Beneath the portrait, inscribed in Cyrillic script, is a phrase which adds another layer of complexity. The text appears satirical or mocking, referencing currency (hundred rubles) and implying a connection between wealth and silence – a deliberate withholding of words. This inscription suggests that the painting isnt merely a straightforward depiction but carries a critical commentary on social status and perhaps the superficiality associated with it.
The portrait’s style evokes a sense of caricature or informal observation, hinting at a satirical intent. The combination of the subject’s attire – suggestive of wealth and privilege – with the mocking inscription creates an ambiguous narrative. Its possible that the painting is intended to be both flattering and critical, presenting a seemingly respectable individual while simultaneously exposing a perceived flaw or hypocrisy. The overall effect is one of playful irony, inviting viewers to consider the relationship between appearance, wealth, and social behavior.