the New Year. At least not coherently. Elizabeth Merkuryevna Boehm (Endaurova) (1843-1914)

The drawing presents a young child seated at a small table, engaged in writing. The figure is rendered with loose brushstrokes and a muted palette dominated by browns, greens, and ochre tones, lending it a somewhat aged or faded quality. Light falls from the upper left corner, illuminating the childs face and hands while leaving much of the background shrouded in shadow.
The child’s posture suggests concentration; their head is bent over the paper, pen held firmly. A doll sits beside them on the table, seemingly a silent companion to this solitary activity. The doll itself appears somewhat worn or antique, its features softened by age and handling.
Above the figure, Cyrillic script is visible, indicating a festive occasion – likely a New Year’s greeting. Beneath the child, another inscription in Cyrillic offers a more complex sentiment: For those who find it difficult, I am sorry; for those who can, let them look. This text introduces an element of melancholy or resignation into what might otherwise be perceived as a straightforward depiction of childhood innocence and festivity.
The subtext here is layered. The child’s writing could symbolize hopes, wishes, or perhaps even anxieties associated with the New Year. The dolls presence suggests comfort and companionship in a potentially uncertain world. However, the inscription at the bottom introduces an undercurrent of sadness or disappointment. It implies that some individuals may find joy during this time difficult to access, while others are able to experience it freely. This juxtaposition creates a sense of ambiguity; the drawing is not simply about celebration but also acknowledges the complexities and potential hardships inherent in human experience. The overall effect is one of quiet introspection rather than exuberant revelry.