Sold on the ruble. Elizabeth Merkuryevna Boehm (Endaurova) (1843-1914)

The drawing presents a scene steeped in melancholy and social commentary. A young boy, seemingly asleep or lost in deep thought, occupies the central space. His posture is slumped, his head resting on what appears to be a table draped with fabric. The lighting emphasizes the contours of his face, highlighting an expression that conveys exhaustion and perhaps despair.
Arranged around him are several symbolic elements. Two coins, rendered with meticulous detail, lie near the boys hand. They appear to be currency, their presence immediately suggesting themes of poverty and economic hardship. To the right, a small metal container sits on the table, its contents obscured but hinting at scarcity or limited resources.
The most striking feature is the text inscribed vertically along the left side of the composition. The lettering is crude and somewhat chaotic, as if hastily scrawled. It appears to be a lament, detailing a series of transactions – sold, lost, stolen – culminating in a final, poignant declaration: “What’s left is only sorrow!” This textual element provides crucial context for understanding the scenes narrative and emotional weight.
The artist employed a limited tonal range, primarily utilizing shades of gray to create an atmosphere of somberness and bleakness. The lack of vibrant color reinforces the feeling of deprivation and hopelessness. The composition’s vertical format further contributes to this sense of confinement and oppression.
Here we see more than just a depiction of a child; it is a visual indictment of economic inequality and its devastating impact on vulnerable individuals. The boy serves as a poignant symbol of those burdened by poverty, while the coins and text underscore the relentless cycle of loss and despair that defines their existence. The drawing’s power lies in its ability to evoke empathy and prompt reflection on the social conditions that perpetuate such suffering.