would like you to please. Elizabeth Merkuryevna Boehm (Endaurova) (1843-1914)

The drawing presents a young figure, presumably female, seated at a table laden with objects that suggest both abundance and disarray. The subjects gaze is directed outward, carrying a complex expression – a mixture of melancholy, perhaps resignation, and an underlying vulnerability. Her posture leans forward slightly, as if in contemplation or weary acceptance.
The table itself is covered with a red cloth, which serves to heighten the visual impact of the objects placed upon it. These include what appears to be a partially consumed meal (a bowl containing food), scattered papers, a small toy animal, and a decorative object resembling a miniature tower. The presence of these items suggests a life of privilege or at least comfortable circumstances, yet their haphazard arrangement implies a sense of emotional turbulence or neglect.
A handwritten script is visible on one of the papers; though illegible without translation, its inclusion adds another layer to the narrative. It seems to be an external voice commenting on the scene, potentially offering explanation or judgment. The text’s placement and style suggest its not part of the subject’s immediate experience but rather a detached observation.
The figure is adorned with a crown and elaborate jewelry, indicating royalty or high social status. However, this ostentatious display contrasts sharply with her somber demeanor and the general atmosphere of disquietude. This juxtaposition could be interpreted as a commentary on the burdens of power, the isolation that often accompanies privilege, or the disillusionment experienced by those who inhabit positions of authority.
The artist’s use of color is notable. The warm tones of red and gold are offset by cooler shades in the figures face and clothing, creating a visual tension that mirrors the emotional complexity of the scene. Loose brushstrokes contribute to an overall impression of spontaneity and immediacy, as if capturing a fleeting moment of introspection.
Ultimately, the drawing evokes a sense of quiet sadness and unspoken narrative. It is not merely a portrait but rather a glimpse into a world where outward appearances mask deeper anxieties and uncertainties.