Rachitelnoe domovodstvo Russian folk splints

The artwork presents a complex allegorical scene centered around domestic labor and education. Here we observe six figures arranged across a central axis, each engaged in distinct activities and accompanied by textual verses. The composition is structured as a didactic illustration, likely intended for educational purposes given the presence of Cyrillic text alongside the imagery.
At the apex of the arrangement floats a winged figure, reminiscent of an angel or allegorical representation of knowledge, holding aloft what appears to be a scroll or banner. This central figure seems to bestow guidance upon the individuals below.
To the left, a young boy in elaborate attire stands beside a man dressed in formal clothing and a top hat. The boy holds a broom, suggesting an introduction to household tasks. Adjacent to them is another boy, clad in blue, who appears to be struggling with his lessons, indicated by the scattered books at his feet. This suggests a commentary on the challenges of early education.
The central figure, a young girl in a vibrant blue dress and apron, stands before a table laden with various tools – a rolling pin, a whisk, and other implements associated with baking and cooking. She is positioned as the focal point of domestic skill acquisition. A boy in red, seemingly observing her, holds a rake, implying another aspect of household maintenance.
On the right side, two young girls are depicted carrying baskets, presumably filled with gathered goods or laundry. Their attire suggests a more rural setting or perhaps a depiction of tasks performed outside the home.
The color palette is dominated by blues, reds, and greens, creating a sense of vibrancy and order. The figures are rendered in a somewhat stylized manner, characteristic of instructional illustrations intended for broad accessibility. The use of perspective is limited, prioritizing clarity over realism.
Subtexts within the work appear to revolve around the importance of both domestic skills and education for young people. Theres an implicit commentary on gender roles, with girls being primarily associated with household tasks while boys are presented as learners or engaged in outdoor labor. The angelic figure at the top suggests a divine sanctioning of these activities, implying that diligent work and learning are virtuous pursuits. Overall, the artwork functions as a visual guide to proper conduct and skill development for children within a specific cultural context.