By the cradle Alexei Alexeivich Harlamoff (1840-1923)

The painting presents a domestic interior, seemingly belonging to a rural or working-class household. The space is defined by rough-hewn wooden beams that form the ceiling, contributing to a sense of enclosure and simplicity. Light enters from an unseen source, illuminating the scene with a muted, diffused quality that softens the harshness of the surroundings.
Here we see a young girl standing near a small table. She appears absorbed in reading or studying, her posture suggesting concentration. A metal pail rests on the floor beside her, hinting at daily chores and labor. The presence of a cradle dominates the composition’s center; within it lies an infant, asleep and seemingly undisturbed.
The walls are sparsely decorated, with utilitarian objects – tools, utensils, and religious iconography – hanging from hooks. This arrangement underscores the practicality and austerity of life in this setting. A crucifix is prominently displayed, suggesting faith as a central element in the familys values. The floor is covered with worn rugs, adding to the impression of age and lived-in character.
The artist placed the figures within a confined space, emphasizing their vulnerability and dependence on one another. The contrast between the child’s focused activity and the infant’s peaceful slumber suggests themes of responsibility, nurturing, and the cyclical nature of life. There is an underlying sense of quiet dignity in this depiction of everyday existence, despite the evident poverty and hardship. The overall tone evokes a feeling of melancholy tempered by hope – a poignant portrayal of familial bonds within a challenging environment.