Thanks Sergey Sergeyevich Solomko (1867-1928)

The artwork presents a poignant scene of intimacy and gratitude set against a backdrop suggesting wartime circumstances. Here we observe a man in military attire leaning heavily on crutches, seated close to a woman who offers him comfort and affection. The soldiers uniform, complete with cap and dark overcoat, immediately establishes his role within a conflict. His posture – slumped and reliant on the crutches – indicates injury or disability, suggesting he is recovering from some form of trauma.
The woman’s attire, a white blouse and decorative headwear, contrasts with the soldiers darker clothing, creating a visual distinction between masculine strength (or its absence) and feminine tenderness. She embraces him closely, her hand resting on his chest while she gently touches his cheek. This gesture conveys not only affection but also a sense of solace and support for someone in distress. The proximity of their bodies underscores the emotional connection between them.
The color palette is dominated by reds and whites, with the soldier’s trousers providing a striking splash of red against the otherwise muted tones. This bold use of color draws attention to his lower body, perhaps symbolizing resilience or vitality despite his physical limitations.
Above the figures, the word Merci! (French for “Thanks”) is inscribed in elegant script, reinforcing the theme of gratitude that permeates the image. The presence of Cyrillic text below suggests a connection to Eastern European culture, potentially indicating the origin of the artwork or its intended audience.
Subtly, the work explores themes of vulnerability, recovery, and the enduring power of human connection amidst hardship. It is likely intended as an expression of appreciation for aid received – perhaps from civilians towards soldiers – and offers a glimpse into the emotional landscape shaped by conflict. The artist’s choice to depict such a tender moment within a context of war suggests a desire to highlight the humanity that persists even in times of crisis.