small fish. Elizabeth Merkuryevna Boehm (Endaurova) (1843-1914)

Here we observe a small-scale depiction of a youthful figure, seemingly a child, rendered in oil paint on what appears to be a wooden panel. The composition is tightly focused on the subjects upper body and face, cropped at the shoulders. The background is indistinct, composed of swirling brushstrokes in muted blues and browns that suggest water or an atmospheric haze.
The child’s gaze is directed downwards and slightly to the left, conveying a sense of introspection or perhaps melancholy. Their expression is complex; theres a hint of sadness mingled with innocence. The hands are clasped together in what could be interpreted as prayer, supplication, or simply a gesture of comfort. A small fish, rendered with delicate detail, is held loosely within the left hand. Its presence introduces an element of symbolic ambiguity.
The artist’s technique emphasizes texture and immediacy. Visible brushstrokes contribute to a sense of movement and spontaneity. The use of light is dramatic; it illuminates the childs face and hands while leaving much of the background in shadow, drawing attention to the central figure. The skin tones are rendered with subtle variations, suggesting both vulnerability and resilience.
Beneath the image, Cyrillic script is visible, adding another layer of meaning that requires further contextualization. It likely provides a title or inscription related to the subject matter.
Subtexts within this work revolve around themes of innocence, faith, and perhaps sacrifice. The fish, often associated with Christian symbolism (referencing Christs feeding of the multitudes), could signify sustenance, redemption, or divine grace. The child’s posture and expression suggest a contemplative state, hinting at an understanding beyond their years. The small scale of the painting lends it an intimate quality, inviting close scrutiny and personal reflection on the depicted scene.