knyaginyushka tray and a cup of honey, green wine Elizabeth Merkuryevna Boehm (Endaurova) (1843-1914)

The composition presents a young woman seated at a table, engaged in what appears to be a moment of quiet contemplation. She is positioned slightly off-center, drawing immediate attention to her face and posture. The artist has rendered her with a delicate palette, emphasizing the softness of her features and the vulnerability conveyed through her downward gaze.
The details of her attire are noteworthy. A richly ornamented fur hat sits atop her head, partially obscured by a white kerchief that frames her face. This combination suggests a blend of traditional rural dress and perhaps a degree of affluence or ceremonial significance. The dark fur collar around her neck further reinforces this impression. Her clothing appears somewhat formal, hinting at a specific occasion or role she might be fulfilling.
The table before her holds two objects: a small tray and a cup. The tray is partially obscured by the woman’s hand, while the cup stands upright beside it. Both vessels appear to be made of metal, reflecting light in a way that suggests their value. The presence of honey and green wine – as indicated by the inscription below – introduces an element of domesticity and perhaps indulgence into the scene. These items are not merely props; they contribute to a sense of ritual or offering.
The background is deliberately muted, rendered in warm earth tones that recede from the foreground figure. This lack of detail directs focus entirely onto the woman and her immediate surroundings. The texture of the background appears aged, almost like parchment, which lends an air of antiquity and timelessness to the work.
A decorative initial letter is placed on the left side of the composition, intertwined with floral motifs. It serves as a visual anchor and adds another layer of ornamentation to the overall design. The Cyrillic inscription at the bottom provides context, though its meaning remains secondary to the visual narrative.
The painting evokes a sense of quiet melancholy and introspection. The woman’s posture suggests a burden or a secret held within. While seemingly simple in subject matter, the work is imbued with subtle layers of symbolism related to tradition, domesticity, and perhaps even sacrifice.