In the artist’s workshop Vasily Pukirev (1832-1890)

The painting depicts a lively scene inside an artists cluttered workshop. Several men are gathered, all seemingly focused on a large religious icon being held by one of them. The central figure, an older man in a dark suit, appears to be an art critic or patron, gesturing animatedly as he speaks. He is surrounded by other figures: a younger man in a plaid shirt holding the icon, a man in a brown robe with a walking stick who seems to be making a point, and a portly gentleman in a fur-trimmed coat and hat, who appears to be listening intently.
The workshop itself is filled with artistic elements. Sculptures, including a classical nude, a headless bust, and plaster casts of body parts, adorn the walls and shelves. Other paintings are visible, some in progress and others finished, leaning against the walls. In the background, an arched portrait of a serene woman hangs on the wall. To the right, a peek through an open doorway reveals a young girl with wide eyes, observing the scene.
The subtexts can be interpreted through the interactions and the setting. The painting appears to be a commentary on the art world, possibly satirizing the process of art criticism and patronage. The exaggerated expressions and gestures of the men, particularly the critic and the man with the walking stick, suggest a debate or a strong artistic opinion being voiced. The presence of classical sculptures and religious icons alongside the contemporary scene hints at a dialogue between tradition and modernity in art. The young girl peeking in could symbolize the innocent or uninitiated observer of the art world, or perhaps the future generation of artists and viewers. The overall atmosphere is one of intellectual engagement, lively discussion, and the bustling creativity of an artists space.