Moving from the cottage Leonid Solomatkin (1837-1883)

The composition presents a scene of departure, centered around a horse-drawn cart laden with possessions. The artist depicted a man, presumably the driver, standing before his vehicle; he is positioned slightly off-center and appears to be observing the surroundings rather than actively engaged in guiding the horse. His posture suggests a moment of pause or reflection amidst the process of relocation. He wears simple work attire – a light shirt, trousers tucked into boots – indicating a working-class background.
The cart itself is overflowing with an assortment of items covered by a white cloth, hinting at domestic belongings and personal effects. Several cats are perched atop this makeshift pile, adding a touch of unexpected detail and perhaps suggesting the familys attachment to their animals. The horse, dark in color, stands patiently, its harness visible against the backdrop of urban architecture.
The setting is an urban environment characterized by tall, closely spaced buildings with repetitive window patterns. These structures create a sense of enclosure and anonymity, contrasting with the personal nature of the departure taking place. A figure dressed in what appears to be a uniform – possibly a city worker or guard – is visible on the right side of the painting, holding a hose; this element introduces an element of civic order and perhaps alludes to the ongoing modernization of the urban landscape.
The overall tone is melancholic yet imbued with a sense of quiet dignity. The scene evokes themes of displacement, transition, and the challenges faced by individuals navigating social change. The artist’s choice to focus on ordinary people engaged in everyday activities – leaving a home, caring for animals – suggests an interest in portraying the human experience within a broader historical context. The subdued color palette reinforces this feeling of quiet contemplation, while the composition directs attention towards the man and his cart, emphasizing the personal narrative unfolding against the backdrop of urban development.