Sverchkov Nikolay Egorovich (1817-1898)
Rural wedding train
1860-s
118,8 х 162,4 cm
Oil on canvas
Such a cheerful and noisy procession could be seen a couple of centuries ago, when the groom went to the bride’s father’s house to then lead the newly married. The train was accompanied by all sorts of rituals, which were believed to ward off evil spirits and evil power.
The husband-to-be was driving around, driving around - that was the name of the motorcade. It was attended by the father, senior matchmaker and boyfriend, representative of the groom, protecting the groom and the bride from damage. The young man was also accompanied by his mother, one or more matchmakers, friends and witnesses at the wedding. An important member of the train was the harmonist with his instrument. The road was blocked, the gate was not open, the bridesmaids demanded ransom. All the obstacles were overcome by a friend, who selflessly talked everyone and gave. At the entrance to the bride’s house forward sent a messenger (most often also a boyfriend) to inform the young man of the arrival.
By the way, such trains prepared not only young - wealthy families could afford to organize a trip and the bride