The artwork known as “Father Frost and the step-daughter,” created by Ivan Bilibin, belongs to the Art Nouveau (Modern) movement and falls under the genre of illustration. The work exemplifies Bilibin’s characteristic style, known for its intricate details and vibrant colors, which are employed to bring to life the characters and scenes from Russian folklore.
In the artwork, a scene unfolds in a snow-covered forest where an elderly man, Father Frost, stands facing a young girl. Father Frost, dressed in ornate winter garments and holding a staff, extends his arm towards the girl, whose posture suggests cold and weariness, as she sits on a small decorated chest. The surrounding trees, heavily laden with snow, frame the encounter, enhancing the narrative’s wintery ambiance. The colors used are predominantly cool, with a significant use of whites and blues to depict the cold environment, contrasted by the muted brown and red tones of the girl’s clothes. The intricate design and stylization of the figures and background demonstrate the distinctive Art Nouveau influence, characterized by fluid forms and elaborate ornamentation. Bilibin’s illustration not only vividly captures the essence of the tale but also reflects his mastery in blending traditional folklore with modern artistic expression.
