Скачать или смотреть They Did Not Expect Him, 1888

In 19th-century Russia, having ideas against the Tsar could cost you your freedom. Many were sent into exile in Siberia, far from their families, with little hope of returning. In this painting, Ilya Repin captures the moment when one of them finally comes home—without warning.

The scene takes place inside a modest house. A maid opens the door, frozen in shock. The mother has just risen from her chair, unable to contain her emotion. In the background, a woman and several children watch, unsure if what they see is real.

This man doesn’t return as a hero, but as a political exile marked by years of absence. His clothes are worn, his posture uncertain. The entire room feels charged with surprise, relief, and quiet tension.

Each person reacts differently, and that mix of emotions is what makes this scene so powerful: the moment of reunion with someone everyone thought was gone forever.