Kissing ceremony. Canvas, oil. Konstantin Makovsky (1839-1915)

The painting depicts a vibrant and animated scene within an ornate, dimly lit interior, likely a banquet hall in a historical Russian setting. The central focus is a solemn ritual involving a young woman, dressed in traditional, richly adorned Russian attire, presenting a golden goblet on a silver tray to a man in a green and gold tunic. He stands with one hand extended, accepting the offering.
To the left of this central exchange, a group of figures, also in elaborate historical dress, observes the ceremony. Their expressions and postures suggest a mix of solemnity and anticipation. Among them, an older woman in a white veil seems to be guiding or endorsing the young woman.
The right side of the painting contrasts sharply with the left, portraying a scene of revelry and excess. A long table laden with food and drink is occupied by men, some of whom are visibly intoxicated, with one man slumped over the table. A jester, in a colorful outfit, is engaged with an older man, characterized by a long beard and luxurious robes, seemingly offering him a drink or some entertainment. This juxtaposition highlights different aspects of the courtly life and social hierarchy.
The subtexts of the painting can be interpreted in several ways. The Kissing Ceremony title itself suggests a symbolic ritual, perhaps a betrothal, a formal acceptance of an offering, or a rite of passage. The contrast between the solemn left side and the boisterous right side can be seen as a commentary on the dual nature of power and social engagement – the formal duties and expectations versus the informal pleasures and indulgences. The presence of the young woman and the man in the center, amidst this setting, could symbolize the potential union, the passing of tradition, or even a moment of political or social significance. The opulence of the attire and surroundings clearly indicates wealth and status, placing the scene within an aristocratic or royal context. The overall atmosphere, captured through dramatic lighting and detailed rendering, evokes a sense of historical grandeur and the complexities of life within such a society.