YURI VASNETSOV (1900-1973) Zagorsk, 1945 signed in Cyrillic 'Y Vasnetsov' (lower right) oil on canvas 63 x 76 cm Yuri Alekseevich Vasnetsov (1900-1973) was a Russian Soviet artist and graphic designer who specialised in illustrating children's books. He was related to Viktor and Apollinaire Vasnetsov. In 1921, he enrolled in the painting department of the Higher School of Art and Architecture (later Vkhutemas), then studied under Malevich at the GINHUK. From 1932 to 1934, he studied post-graduate studies at the Institute of Painting, Sculpture and Architecture of the USSR Academy of Arts. He also studied under I. E. Braz, K. S. Petrov-Vodkin and N. E. Radlov. After graduating in 1926, he began working in the children's and young people's literature department of the State Publishing House. Under the artistic direction of V. V. Lebedev, he found his calling in interpreting the themes and images of Russian folklore and fairy tales. In the 1930s, he made a name for himself with his illustrations of tales by P. I. Kriizha, K. I. Tchoukovski and L. I. Tolstoï. During this period, he also created colourful and captivating lithographs for children, inspired by motifs from familiar stories. In 1979, a retrospective exhibition of his works was held at the Russian National Museum. His works are represented in the collections of major Russian museums, including the Tretyakov Gallery, the Russian Museum and the Pushkin Museum. At the buyer's request, we would be happy to provide a general condition report on the lot described above. However, as we are not professional conservators or restorers, we strongly advise prospective buyers to carry out their own inspection or consult a specialist of their choice for a full assessment of the condition of the lot. Descriptions of items provided in the catalogue or by correspondence are for guidance only and should not be relied upon as a definitive assessment. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD 'AS IS' IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE PUBLISHED IN THE CATALOGUE.