Mental Arithmetic. In the Public School of S.Rachinsky 1895

"Mental Arithmetic. In the Public School of S.Rachinsky" (1895) by Nikolay Bogdanov-Belsky is a realistic depiction of a rural Russian schoolroom. The painting portrays a group of young boys intently focused on solving a mathematical problem written on the blackboard. The teacher, seated in the foreground, observes the students as they struggle to solve the equation. The painting captures the intensity and solemnity of the learning process, emphasizing the importance of education in 19th-century Russia. The realistic depiction of the students, their clothing, and the classroom setting creates a sense of authenticity, making the scene relatable to viewers. The painting showcases the artist’s masterful use of light and shadow to highlight the students' expressions and the overall atmosphere of the classroom.