Wish. Acquire new friends, an old friend did not forget! Elizabeth Merkuryevna Boehm (Endaurova) (1843-1914)

The composition presents two young children seated at a simple wooden table. A girl, positioned slightly forward, holds a glass towards a boy who sits beside her. Both figures are rendered with a degree of realism, though softened by the overall muted color palette and gentle lighting. The boy’s gaze is directed downwards, seemingly focused on the contents of the glass, while the girl looks at him with an expression that suggests offering or sharing.
The table itself is sparsely arranged; a small plate sits near the boy, and a bowl rests closer to the girl. These objects suggest a modest meal or perhaps a shared treat. The background is indistinct, appearing as a wash of warm browns and ochres, which contributes to the intimate and enclosed feeling of the scene.
Above the children, Cyrillic script is visible, though its precise meaning remains obscured without translation. Its presence suggests an inscription or dedication related to the depicted moment. This textual element adds another layer of narrative complexity, hinting at a deeper significance beyond the immediate visual representation.
The artist’s choice of subject matter – two young children engaged in a seemingly simple act of sharing – evokes themes of friendship, generosity, and perhaps even loss or remembrance. The girls gesture could be interpreted as an attempt to comfort or connect with the boy, suggesting a possible underlying emotional narrative. The overall tone is one of quiet intimacy and understated sentimentality, inviting contemplation on the nature of childhood relationships and the enduring power of shared experiences.