Ivan Yakovlevich Bilibin, 1876-1942

Professor N.L.Okunev, Prague
Thence by decent

Prague, Institut Slave de Prague, Exposition de la peinture russe, 1935, No. 40
Prague, National Gallery, Russian Graphic Arts from the early 20th Century, 17 September - 3 October 1971, No.12

The sheet appears sound apart from a few light spots of staining. The colours are fresh and the work is ready to hang. eld in a simple wooden frame under glass. Unexamined out of frame.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

"This is icon-painting alive."

S. Volkonsky

This beautifully rendered image of Tsaritsa Militrissa from The Tale of Tsar Saltan, exemplifies Bilibin's ability to combine the traditional primitivism of icon painting with foreign motifs. Bilibin was an avid collector of local crafts and incorporated not only historical authenticity and Old Russian tradition into his designs but also fantasy. While the subject is quintessentially an image from ancient Rus', the decorations of the tsaritsa's dress and the tiles on the balcony are clearly influenced by the intricacies of Persian design.