This painting is the most famous piece among Pukirev's works recognized by Imperial Academy of Fine Arts in St. Petersburg, for which author was awarded the title of professor. Painting represents a new editorial position - the theme of power of money. It is so obvious, that picture was taken as autobiography, but in reality, the drama takes place in the family of Moscow merchant Varentsov. The perception of autobiographical content in the painting surfaces because a young man, standing behind a young lady marrying an old man, resembles the painter.