Our profits copper pennies Elizabeth Merkuryevna Boehm (Endaurova) (1843-1914)

The drawing presents a young boy holding a basket overflowing with what appears to be cotton or fluff. He is positioned centrally within the composition and occupies nearly the entire frame, emphasizing his presence and significance. The artist has rendered him in a somewhat idealized manner; his features are soft, suggesting innocence and vulnerability. His gaze is directed outward, towards the viewer, creating a direct connection that invites empathy.
The boy’s attire – a simple cap and a light-colored tunic – indicates a modest social standing. The basket he carries is rendered with considerable detail, its woven texture clearly visible. Its brimming with the white material, which contrasts sharply with the earthy tones of the basket itself. This contrast draws attention to the contents and hints at their potential value or importance.
The background is indistinct, blurred by a wash of muted colors that serve to isolate the figure and focus attention on him. The overall palette is restrained, dominated by pale yellows, browns, and whites, contributing to a sense of quiet melancholy.
Subtleties within the drawing suggest deeper meanings beyond a simple depiction of a child with a basket. The abundance of the material in the basket could symbolize prosperity or a bountiful harvest, yet the boy’s expression is not one of triumph but rather a gentle seriousness. This juxtaposition implies that even amidst potential wealth, there may be underlying anxieties or responsibilities.
The drawings context – the title Our Profits Copper Pennies – further illuminates its meaning. It suggests that this child represents labor and the accumulation of small gains, perhaps through arduous work. The image is not merely a portrait but a commentary on economic realities and the role of children within them. The boy’s gaze, though direct, seems to carry a weight beyond his years, hinting at the burdens associated with earning a living.