Nikolai Petrovich Bogdanov-Belsky

Acquired directly from the artist by the family of the previous owner

Original canvas. There is a layer of surface dirt. UV light reveals no signs of retouching. Held in a silvered wood frame and 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."

The renowned Russian artist and academician, Nikolai Bogdanov-Belsky lived permanently in Riga from the autumn of 1921. It was in Latvia's eastern territory of Latgalia that he found the source of his artistic inspiration.
During the years spent in this picturesque region, he painted a multitude of works depicting peasant children in the surrounding countryside. These paintings continued the theme of his Russian period and, as in Russia, the artist was highly acclaimed.
Bogdano-Belsky himself remarked, "There is something dear to all mankind in this age, those soft facial features, those colourful children's figures. And maybe, it's exactly peasant children, devoid of city culture and that uniform grooming which leaves a face devoid of character, who will always attract attention and appeal."