Solominka

Research Status: Basic Last Updated: 2025-06-30 Diary Coverage: Up to 1874-01-01

Overview

Solominka appears frequently in Marie Bashkirtseff's 1873 diary as a regular companion and member of their social circle in Nice. The name suggests Russian or Eastern European origins, fitting with the expatriate community around the Bashkirtseffs.

Role in Marie's Life

Solominka appears to be:

• Regular Companion: Frequently accompanies the family on outings
• Peer or Dependent: Unclear if friend, relative, or companion
• Trusted Presence: Included in family activities and discussions

Key Appearances

Social Activities

• December 15, 1873: "maman, ma tante, moi, Dina, Solominka" - listed as part of the family group
• December 25, 1873: Present during Christmas activities
• October 31, 1873: Mentioned during the Halloween period
• November periods: Regular presence in family activities

Daily Life

Solominka participates in:

• Shopping expeditions
• Social visits
• Family outings
• Holiday celebrations

Social Position

The frequent casual mentions suggest Solominka was:

• Part of the Household: More than a visitor
• Social Equal or Near-Equal: Included in family activities
• Possible Companion: May have been a paid companion or poor relation

Name Analysis

"Solominka" (Соломинка in Russian) means "little straw" or "blade of straw":

• Could be a nickname
• Might indicate slight build or blonde hair
• Possibly a diminutive of a longer name

Relationship Dynamics

Solominka's position appears comfortable but subordinate:

• Always listed after family members
• Included but not central to decisions
• Present but rarely the focus of entries

Historical Context

In 19th century aristocratic households, it was common to have:

• Paid Companions: Genteel women who provided company
• Poor Relations: Family members taken in and supported
• Long-term Guests: Friends in reduced circumstances

Such figures occupied an ambiguous position:

• Higher than servants
• Lower than family
• Included in daily life but dependent

Questions for Further Research

• Was Solominka a first name, last name, or nickname?
• What was their exact relationship to the Bashkirtseff family?
• Were they Russian or of another nationality?
• Did they remain with the family in later years?
• Gender identity (the name could apply to either gender)

%% 2025-06-30T21:50:00 RSR: Created entry for Solominka based on frequent 1873 diary mentions %%