stamped iron red factory mark

Hillwood Museum, no. 37

Oda k Radosti/Ode to Joy, pp. 58-59, cat. no. 36

Excellent condition. The underside of the base with one very small chip, scattered areas of loss to glaze at edges of garments, two small retouched areas on base
"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."

Hunting for lice was a common, and necessary, leisure activity among Russian peasants and appeared quite frequently in accounts of peasant daily life including genre painting.  Given that most peasants lived with few facilities allowing for urban standards of hygiene, the bright colours of the figures' clothing suggests a somewhat romanticized view of the peasantry.