By prazdnichku Christ! Elizabeth Merkuryevna Boehm (Endaurova) (1843-1914)

The artwork presents a wintry scene populated by two children traversing a snow-covered landscape. The composition is dominated by muted earth tones – browns, ochres, and grays – which contribute to a sense of quietude and coldness. A dusting of snow blankets the ground, with heavier accumulations visible on the evergreen tree positioned prominently in the left foreground. This tree appears to have been recently cut, as one child carries it over their shoulder. The other child holds a basket, presumably containing provisions or decorations for an upcoming celebration.
The children are dressed in heavy, traditional clothing – a fur hat and long coat for the boy, a hooded cloak for the girl – suggesting a rural setting and a time of year demanding substantial protection from the elements. Their postures convey a sense of purposeful movement; they appear to be engaged in a shared task or journey. The artist has rendered their faces with minimal detail, focusing instead on capturing the overall impression of youthful resilience and perhaps a touch of solemnity.
The background reveals a distant horizon line punctuated by bare trees and hints of a settlement – a suggestion of human presence beyond the immediate figures. A fence is visible in the distance, adding to the sense of enclosure and rural isolation. The brushwork appears loose and expressive, contributing to the overall feeling of spontaneity and capturing the texture of snow and fabric.
Subtly, the painting evokes themes of community, tradition, and preparation for a festive occasion. The children’s shared burden – the tree and the basket – implies cooperation and familial responsibility. The muted palette and snowy landscape create an atmosphere of anticipation and quiet reverence, hinting at a cultural significance beyond the immediate depiction of two children in winter. The scene speaks to a connection with nature and a sense of belonging within a close-knit community.