Hans Christian Andersen Fairy Tales 1873

Mykola Murashko created this illustration for Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tales, capturing a seemingly simple domestic scene. The image invites us to consider the world of folklore and its connection to the everyday lives of ordinary people. Painted in the late 19th century, likely in the Russian Empire, this artwork reflects the growing interest in national identity and cultural heritage. The scene depicts a woman, perhaps a grandmother, engaged in a humble task, surrounded by animals and simple household objects. These details evoke a sense of rural life and tradition. The choice of illustrating fairy tales suggests an effort to preserve and celebrate folk traditions as sources of wisdom and cultural identity. The Russian Empire at this time was undergoing significant social and political changes, and art often served as a means of exploring and reaffirming cultural values. By studying similar illustrations, folk collections, and historical accounts, we can gain a richer understanding of the cultural context in which this image was created and appreciate the important role of art in reflecting and shaping social identities.