An optimist and a pessimist 1893

"An Optimist and a Pessimist" is an oil painting by Vladimir Makovsky created in 1893. The painting depicts two men sitting on a bench in a park. One man, an optimist, is depicted holding a cane, while the other, a pessimist, sits with a stack of books, symbolizing his intellectual burdens. Makovsky is known for his realistic depictions of everyday life in Russia, and this painting is a prime example of his work. It is a small-scale piece, measuring 19.16 x 26.46 cm, and depicts a poignant scene that resonates with viewers who have considered their own perspectives on life.