Cossacks write a letter to the Turkish sultan Ilya Repin (1844-1930)

The painting depicts a group of Cossacks gathered around a table, in the midst of writing a letter. The scene is filled with boisterous energy and a sense of camaraderie. The central figure, a young man, is diligently writing, while the others around him are intensely engaged in the process, some leaning in to see, others gesturing, and many are roaring with laughter. Their faces are contorted with mirth, their eyes crinkled, and their mouths wide open in joyous exclamations. Their traditional Cossack attire, with colorful vests, fur hats, and distinctive hairstyles (like the prominent tonsure), adds to the historical and cultural context of the scene.
The subtext of the painting lies in the powerful representation of Cossack spirit and defiance. The letter is famously addressed to the Ottoman Sultan, and the Cossacks uninhibited laughter and animated expressions suggest the audacious and contemptuous tone of their message. It is a testament to their independence, bravery, and their refusal to bow to any authority, even that of a powerful empire. The scene captures a moment of defiant joy, where the act of writing a taunting letter becomes an expression of freedom and pride shared amongst a brotherhood. The collective euphoria and shared amusement highlight their unity and their shared defiance against a formidable enemy.