Lets drink tea. Elizabeth Merkuryevna Boehm (Endaurova) (1843-1914)

The composition presents a domestic scene centered around two children seated at a small table covered with a white cloth. The lighting is subdued and warm, originating from an unseen source on the left side of the frame, casting shadows that contribute to a sense of intimacy and enclosure. A large metal teapot dominates the central space of the table, flanked by what appear to be pastries or cakes arranged on a plate.
The girl, positioned closer to the viewer, is dressed in traditional attire – a white blouse with lace trim and an elaborately decorated headscarf featuring red ribbons. She holds a handkerchief to her nose, suggesting perhaps a slight discomfort or shyness. Her posture is somewhat hunched, conveying a sense of modesty or restraint. The boy, seated opposite her, wears a dark green jacket and has his gaze directed downwards towards the glass he holds in his hand. His body language appears more relaxed than that of the girl, though his averted eyes hint at a possible introversion or preoccupation.
The color palette is dominated by muted tones – whites, creams, browns, and greens – which contribute to the overall feeling of quietude and nostalgia. The artist employed loose brushstrokes, particularly evident in the background, which lends a sense of spontaneity and immediacy to the work.
Subtly, the scene evokes themes of childhood innocence, tradition, and perhaps even social decorum. The traditional clothing suggests an adherence to cultural heritage, while the act of sharing tea – a common ritual – implies connection and hospitality. The children’s expressions and postures suggest a complex interplay of emotions – shyness, contemplation, and a quiet sense of shared experience. The inscription at the bottom, written in what appears to be Cyrillic script, further anchors the work within a specific cultural context, hinting at a message or sentiment intended for those familiar with the language. Overall, the painting conveys a feeling of gentle warmth and understated narrative.