The artwork, titled “Boys in sailor’s striped vests,” is a portrait created by the artist Zinaida Serebriakova in 1919. This piece is part of the Art Nouveau (Modern) movement.
In this composition, two young boys are depicted wearing sailor’s striped vests, a motif that lends a sense of uniformity and simplicity to the work. The boy on the left is seated, deeply engrossed in reading a book, with his legs crossed and one hand thoughtfully supporting his chin. His concentration and the positioning of the book suggest an intimate moment of learning or leisure. The boy on the right stands with one hand in his pocket and the other holding what appears to be a small object, perhaps a tool or a toy. He gazes outward with a composed but observant expression. The background, though partially visible, hints at an indoor setting with light filtering in through a window, illuminating the scene with soft, natural light. The use of warm, muted tones and detailed brushstrokes characterizes Serebriakova’s style, emphasizing the serene and contemplative atmosphere of the portrait.
