This is a fabulous illustration by Alexander Kurkin from a 1961 version of Alexander Pushkin's The Tale of Tsar Saltan. Depicting a scene from the fairytale, Kurkin uses stunning shades of bright colors to depict his subjects. Originally written in 1831, it is a Russian fairytale about Tsar Saltan, his son Prince Gvidon, and a swan princess. The story involves Prince Gvidon being separated from his father and ruling an island filled with enchanted animals and objects. He marries an enchanted swan who turns back into a princess.

Measures 8.5 in. X 11 in., and has been pasted to the back of a pocket folder by previous seller.  This would make a wonderful wall hanging, full of life and color.

Alexander M. Kurkin (1916) was a Russian artist known for his illustrations, particularly in the style of Russian lacquer art. Themes of Kurkin's works include folklore, contemporary subjects, and genre scenes. Major works include "The Scarlet Flower", "Driving Across Berlin", "The Water Nymph", "The Machine-Gun Cart", and "Bread". Many of his pieces are now held in the State Museum of Palekh Art, the State Russian Museum, the Central Museum of the Armed Forces, the Ivanovo Regional Art Museum, and the M.V. Fruze Museum.