Boy – craftsman. 1865 Vasily Perov (1833-1882)

The composition presents a young boy standing in what appears to be a narrow alleyway or passage. He is positioned slightly off-center, his gaze directed upwards and beyond the frame. The figures posture suggests a hopeful expectation, perhaps an appeal for assistance. In his hands, he holds a shallow dish containing something indistinct – possibly food – alongside a small basket.
The boy’s attire indicates poverty and hardship. He wears worn, ill-fitting clothing: a dark coat that seems too large for him, revealing faded pink undergarments beneath. His feet are bare, further emphasizing his vulnerability. The overall impression is one of destitution and dependence.
The setting contributes significantly to the paintings narrative. A window with a striped awning dominates the upper portion of the scene, suggesting a domestic space beyond reach. This visual barrier reinforces the boy’s separation from comfort and security. The wall beside him, rendered in muted tones, creates a sense of confinement and isolation.
The lighting is uneven, highlighting the boys face and hands while leaving much of the background in shadow. This selective illumination draws attention to his expression and the objects he carries, intensifying the emotional impact of the scene. The artist’s use of light and shadow also contributes to a sense of realism, grounding the subject within a tangible environment.
Subtly, the painting explores themes of social inequality and childhood vulnerability. It evokes empathy for those living in poverty and prompts reflection on the disparities between different segments of society. The boys upward gaze can be interpreted as a symbol of hope or aspiration amidst difficult circumstances, while his posture suggests both humility and resilience. The work seems to comment on the realities of urban life during its time, highlighting the plight of children forced into labor or begging for survival.