Drowned 1867

Vasily Perov painted "Drowned" using oil on canvas in the 19th century. Perov was known for his critical realism, often depicting the harsh realities of Russian life. Here, a woman lies face down on the muddy bank of a river or canal, seemingly unnoticed. A police officer sits nearby, casually smoking his pipe. The contrast is stark: her lifeless form versus his composed indifference. Consider the social context of 19th-century Russia, where immense disparities existed between the wealthy and the impoverished. Gender, too, plays a crucial role, as women often faced dire circumstances with limited recourse. Perov’s painting serves as a somber commentary on the social inequalities and the indifference to the suffering of the poor. It evokes feelings of sorrow and injustice, prompting us to reflect on the value we place on human life.