Artwork of the day: Ilya Repin - Unexpected Visitors (1888) The returning exile in the worn peasant overcoat seems to intrude into this measured, comfortable life, as if still clanking his chains. The hero of the picture, singled out by two streams of light – from the window and from the open door, is convinced of his righteousness of his views but he is but yet sure of his relatives’ attitude, of whether he is the source of suffering or pride. The reply to this mute question can be seen in the figure of his mother who rises to meet him. Added on July 28, 2012 by Samuel Jackson.
