Paris sharmanschitsa. H. 1864, m. 76, 2h56 GTG Vasily Perov (1833-1882)

The composition presents a scene unfolding against a backdrop of urban decay and social marginalization. A woman, heavily cloaked in dark fabric, dominates the foreground. She carries a swaddled infant secured close to her chest, her gaze directed downwards with an expression that suggests weariness or perhaps quiet determination. The child’s face is largely obscured, contributing to a sense of vulnerability and anonymity.
The womans occupation appears to be itinerant shoe repair. A small, portable workbench holds various tools and materials related to this trade – shoes in different states of disrepair, brushes, and a metal container likely used for cleaning or applying polish. The presence of these items establishes her as someone who earns a living through manual labor, most probably on the fringes of society.
Behind her, a glimpse into a more populated area is visible. Several figures are discernible – individuals seemingly observing the woman’s work from a distance. A gentleman in a top hat stands out among them; his posture and attire suggest a degree of social standing that contrasts sharply with the womans circumstances. He appears to be engaged in conversation, perhaps commenting on her situation or simply passing judgment. The inclusion of this figure highlights the societal divide between those who possess resources and those who struggle for survival.
The setting itself is bleak. A bare stone wall forms a stark backdrop, while a skeletal tree branches out against a muted sky. This lack of vibrancy reinforces the overall atmosphere of hardship and deprivation. At the base of the composition, a dog lies curled up, seemingly resigned to its own marginal existence – another creature sharing in the scene’s pervasive sense of abandonment.
Subtly, the painting explores themes of poverty, motherhood, and social inequality. The womans stoic demeanor suggests resilience in the face of adversity, while the obscured infant symbolizes both hope for the future and the burden of responsibility. The gentleman’s presence introduces a layer of societal critique, hinting at the indifference or even disdain that those in positions of power may hold towards the less fortunate. Ultimately, the work offers a poignant glimpse into the lives of those who exist on the periphery of urban society.