Its burden is not heavy. Elizabeth Merkuryevna Boehm (Endaurova) (1843-1914)

The composition presents a wintry scene dominated by muted earth tones and a pervasive sense of melancholy. Here we see two children positioned within a snow-covered landscape; one stands pulling a small sled upon which the other sits. The foreground is characterized by rough, textured brushstrokes that convey the unevenness of the ground and the accumulation of snow.
The child standing, clad in heavy winter garments including a fur hat, faces forward with an expression difficult to decipher – perhaps resignation or quiet determination. His posture suggests effort; he leans into the pull, his body angled slightly forward. The seated child, similarly bundled, appears withdrawn, their face partially obscured by a hood and scarf. A small bundle – possibly food or clothing – rests on the sled beside them.
The background is less defined, rendered in broad strokes of pale yellow and brown that suggest distant buildings or fields under a hazy sky. This lack of detail directs attention to the figures themselves and emphasizes their isolation within the vastness of the winter landscape. The horizon line is low, contributing to a feeling of expansiveness and perhaps even vulnerability.
The inscription at the bottom, written in Cyrillic script, provides a direct commentary on the scene: Its burden is not heavy. This phrase introduces a layer of complexity. While it might initially suggest an optimistic view of hardship, within the context of the children’s appearance and the bleakness of their surroundings, it can be interpreted as ironic or even resigned acceptance of difficult circumstances. The inscription doesnt negate the evident struggle but frames it with a statement that could be either genuine belief or a forced reassurance.
The painting evokes themes of childhood, poverty, resilience, and the burden of responsibility. It is not a celebratory depiction of winter recreation; instead, it offers a poignant glimpse into the lives of children navigating hardship within a harsh environment. The artist’s use of color, texture, and composition work together to create an atmosphere of quiet dignity and understated sorrow.