Parsley goes Alexey Korzukhin (1835-1894)

The canvas presents a scene of rural departure, imbued with a sense of melancholy and transition. Here we observe a group of people preparing to leave a homestead, likely relocating for work or seasonal migration. The composition is structured around the central figure of a young boy, barefoot and animated, waving enthusiastically as he leads the procession. His energy contrasts sharply with the subdued expressions of those surrounding him.
The foreground is dominated by the immediate preparations: a dog strains at its leash, eager to join the exodus; children carry baskets laden with possessions; and adults bear larger bundles wrapped in cloth. The clothing suggests a working-class background – simple dresses, patched trousers, and worn boots. A palpable sense of hardship permeates their attire and posture.
Behind this immediate group, two men are visible carrying what appears to be musical instruments – a tuba and drums – suggesting they might be itinerant performers or musicians accompanying the family. This detail introduces a layer of complexity; while the scene depicts poverty and displacement, theres also an element of entertainment or perhaps even hope for a better future through performance.
The background reveals a more expansive landscape, with trees receding into the distance and glimpses of buildings suggesting a small town or village. The light is diffused, creating a hazy atmosphere that contributes to the overall feeling of transience. A white horse stands tethered near a fence, symbolizing both transportation and perhaps a connection to the life they are leaving behind.
The artist’s use of color reinforces these themes. Earth tones dominate – browns, greens, and muted yellows – evoking a sense of rusticity and hardship. The brighter colors worn by the children offer a fleeting moment of joy amidst the somber atmosphere.
Subtly, the painting explores themes of social mobility, rural decline, and the human cost of economic change. It is not merely a depiction of departure but an exploration of the emotional weight carried by those forced to leave their homes in search of opportunity. The boy’s exuberance can be interpreted as either naive optimism or a desperate attempt to mask the underlying sadness of the situation – a poignant commentary on childhood resilience in the face of adversity.