Rendezvous 1 Sergey Sergeyevich Solomko (1867-1928)

The drawing presents a scene steeped in ambiguity and quiet intimacy. Here we observe two figures engaged in what appears to be a clandestine meeting within a secluded garden setting. The composition is vertically oriented, emphasizing the height of the foliage and the implied secrecy of their encounter.
One figure, positioned towards the foreground, stands with her back partially turned to the viewer. Her posture suggests attentiveness; she leans slightly forward, her hand raised as if gesturing or reaching out. She wears a long, flowing garment that obscures much of her form, contributing to an air of mystery and perhaps even concealment. The other figure is smaller in scale and positioned further away, partially obscured by foliage. This individual seems to be looking up at the first, their face tilted upward, suggesting either deference or a longing gaze. A small dog sits between them, its head raised as if participating in the interaction.
The background reveals a building with a steeply pitched roof, hinting at domesticity and perhaps a sense of propriety that contrasts with the clandestine nature of the meeting. The surrounding vegetation is dense and overgrown, creating an atmosphere of enclosure and privacy. Light appears to be diffused, lacking strong directional sources, which contributes to the overall mood of quiet contemplation rather than dramatic action.
The monochromatic palette reinforces this subdued tone, eliminating color as a potential distraction from the emotional weight of the scene. The grainy texture characteristic of photographic reproduction further softens the edges and details, lending an impression of faded memory or a dreamlike quality.
Subtexts within the drawing suggest themes of longing, secrecy, and perhaps forbidden connection. The obscured identities of the figures invite speculation about their relationship – are they lovers, friends, or something else entirely? The dogs presence adds a layer of domesticity to the scene, hinting at an attempt to normalize or soften the potential transgression implied by the clandestine meeting. Ultimately, the drawing leaves much open to interpretation, prompting viewers to construct their own narratives around this quiet and enigmatic encounter.