Seller singers. Sketch 1863

Vasily Perov created this sketch of ‘Seller Singers’ in the 19th century, capturing a scene that reflects the socio-economic realities of the time. Perov was a critical realist painter, who dedicated his art to depicting the lives of the poor and marginalized in Russia, often highlighting social injustices. In this work, we observe a group of people gathered around performers. Notice how the expressions of the audience members vary, some seem hopeful, others skeptical, or perhaps just tired. The details of their clothing and posture hint at their socio-economic status, painting a picture of everyday life in Tsarist Russia. Perov's dedication to portraying the unvarnished truth made him a key figure in the development of Russian realism, influencing generations of artists who followed. With his art, he acted as a voice for the voiceless, challenging the status quo and prompting reflection on the human condition. The raw emotion captured invites us to connect with these figures on a deeply human level, sparking empathy and awareness.