first rank. The son of a deacon, produced in the collegiate registrars. 1860 Lithograph. 39x56 GRM Vasily Perov (1833-1882)

The lithograph presents a domestic interior scene steeped in palpable tension and social commentary. Here we observe a man, formally attired in a dark coat, confronting a family within what appears to be a modest dwelling. The composition is tightly framed, emphasizing the claustrophobia of their circumstances.
To the left, an elderly figure, clad in threadbare garments, leans heavily on a walking stick, his face etched with a mixture of apprehension and resignation. He seems to be observing the unfolding interaction from a position of marginality, perhaps representing societal outsiders or those burdened by age and infirmity. The man at the center stands rigidly, his posture suggesting authority and an uncomfortable sense of duty. His gaze is directed downwards towards the seated woman, who occupies the focal point of the image.
The woman’s expression conveys a complex blend of distress and defiance. She clutches her head with one hand, while the other rests on what appears to be a childs garment draped over a chair beside her. A second figure, presumably her husband or male relative, stands behind her, his arm raised in a gesture that could be interpreted as either protective or threatening. His face is contorted in an expression of anxiety and perhaps suppressed anger.
The setting itself contributes to the overall atmosphere of hardship. The room is sparsely furnished, with visible signs of wear and neglect. A staircase ascends into shadow on the right side of the frame, hinting at a larger, potentially more complex household structure beyond what is immediately visible. The lighting is uneven, casting deep shadows that accentuate the figures’ emotional states and contribute to a sense of unease.
Subtly embedded within this scene are layers of social commentary. The formal attire of the man contrasts sharply with the impoverished state of the family, suggesting a power dynamic rooted in class distinctions. The presence of the elderly figure hints at themes of generational poverty and societal marginalization. The woman’s posture and expression suggest a struggle against oppressive circumstances, possibly related to legal or bureaucratic processes – as indicated by the context of collegiate registrars.
The lithographs monochromatic palette reinforces its somber tone, emphasizing the stark realities of life for those living on the margins of society. It is likely intended to evoke empathy in the viewer while simultaneously prompting reflection on issues of social justice and inequality.