1886
oil on canvas
113 х 153

The idea for the picture, which is unusual for Korovin's early impressionist work, came when the artist was designing shows on folklore themes in Abramtsevo. It is possible that the idea was suggested the opera "The Snow Maiden" based on a play by A.N.Ostrovsky. The picture is painted in abstract colour planes, which renders it ornamental in its impact. It is the first time that the artist turns to lushy contrast between green and red colours. By taking advantage of folk art's favourite combination, he highlights the connection between national idea of beauty and nature. The figures of finely-dressed girl are shown against a backdrop of landscape with overcast evening sky, with scrubby northern trees. A shepherd is playing a pipe; the girlS are lost in the sounds of a thoughtful song. It seems that Nature is enfolded in silence, captured by a plain tune. The colour contrast found by Korovin in this composition will be later used by the artists of neo-Russian style.

at 10, Lavrushinsky Lane, Hall 43