Away Sergey Sergeyevich Solomko (1867-1928)

The composition presents a scene steeped in melancholy and farewell. Four figures occupy the foreground; their arrangement suggests a moment of poignant parting. An elderly man with a long white beard dominates the left side of the canvas. His gaze is directed towards a younger man, who stands slightly behind him, holding a small child close. The older man’s posture conveys a sense of weary resignation and perhaps regret.
The younger man appears to be in the midst of explaining something to the elder, his expression a mixture of sadness and determination. He cradles a sleeping infant, whose face is turned away from the viewer, emphasizing vulnerability and innocence. A woman stands behind them, her features obscured by shadow and a complex headpiece; she seems to observe the scene with a detached air, contributing to the overall atmosphere of quiet sorrow.
The color palette reinforces this mood. Muted earth tones – ochres, browns, and grays – prevail, punctuated only by touches of pale blue and gold in the clothing. The lighting is soft and diffused, creating a hazy effect that blurs details and enhances the sense of distance and loss.
Here we see an exploration of themes such as separation, responsibility, and the passage of time. The child’s sleep symbolizes innocence lost or about to be lost, while the older mans presence suggests a legacy being passed on – perhaps a family tradition, a business, or simply a way of life. The woman’s ambiguous role hints at societal expectations and the constraints placed upon women during the period depicted.
The painting evokes a feeling of quiet drama; it is not a scene of overt conflict but one of subtle emotional weight. It suggests a narrative that extends beyond what is visible, inviting contemplation on the complexities of human relationships and the inevitability of change.