To the reverend Sergey Vinogradov (1869-1938)

The drawing presents a group of figures engaged in what appears to be agricultural labor alongside a body of water. The composition is dominated by a horizontal arrangement, emphasizing the expanse of the landscape and the repetitive nature of the task at hand. A line of individuals, predominantly women and older men, are depicted seated or kneeling near the waters edge, seemingly sorting through harvested materials – likely flax or hemp – as evidenced by the bundles visible nearby.
The artist’s use of color is restrained, employing a palette of earthy tones – browns, greens, yellows – that contribute to a sense of muted realism and reflect the natural environment. The figures are rendered with loose, expressive lines, suggesting an emphasis on capturing their essence rather than precise detail. Their clothing appears simple and functional, indicative of rural working-class attire.
A younger man stands slightly apart from the group, positioned towards the left side of the composition. He carries a basket, his posture conveying a sense of purpose or perhaps observation. The presence of this individual introduces a subtle element of narrative tension; he seems to be either actively participating in the labor or acting as an overseer.
The background reveals a broader landscape – a river or lake stretches into the distance, bordered by vegetation and a hazy horizon line. This backdrop reinforces the isolation and remoteness of the scene, suggesting a community deeply connected to its natural surroundings. The artist’s treatment of the water surface is particularly noteworthy; its rendered with quick strokes that evoke movement and reflect light, adding visual interest to an otherwise static composition.
Beneath the image, handwritten text provides context – a dedication or inscription – which further anchors the work within a specific time and place. This textual element suggests a personal connection between the artist and the depicted scene, hinting at a desire to document or commemorate this particular moment in rural life. The overall impression is one of quiet dignity and resilience, portraying a community bound by tradition and labor.