Morozov Alexander 1835 1904 Exit from the church in Pskov 1864 Oil on canvas 70x89 cm часть 1 - Russian and soviet artists Русские и советские художники

The composition presents a scene unfolding before a substantial, aged structure – likely a church or monastery – characterized by its pale yellow walls and prominent bell tower. The architecture suggests a provincial Russian setting, possibly Pskov, given the style of the building. A clear sky dominates the upper portion of the canvas, lending an air of serenity to the otherwise bustling scene below.
Here we see a multitude of figures emerging from the doorway of the structure. They are dressed in a variety of garments indicative of different social strata within 19th-century Russia. Several women wear long dresses and headscarves, while men are clad in coats, hats, and traditional peasant attire. A group of black-robed clergy members stands near the entrance, their presence signifying the religious context of the gathering.
The foreground is populated by a cluster of individuals who appear to be beggars or impoverished citizens. They are huddled on the ground, some wrapped in blankets, suggesting hardship and dependence. Their proximity to the church creates a visual juxtaposition between spiritual solace and material need. A woman in a dark dress stands out among them, her posture conveying a sense of resignation or quiet despair.
To the right of the central group, a vendor’s stall is visible, laden with produce. This detail introduces an element of everyday commerce into the scene, hinting at the continuation of life beyond the religious observance. A lone bird flies across the sky, adding a touch of naturalism to the composition.
The artist employed a muted color palette, dominated by yellows, browns, and grays, which contributes to the overall somber mood. The light source appears to be coming from the left, illuminating the faces of the figures as they emerge into daylight. This lighting emphasizes their expressions and gestures, inviting contemplation on their individual stories.
Subtly embedded within this depiction is a commentary on social inequality and the role of religion in providing both comfort and a stark reminder of human suffering. The painting seems to explore themes of faith, poverty, and the complexities of Russian society during that era.