The first factory of knitting and embroidery paper ... (Ostashov P.) Soviet Posters (1917-1941)

This historical lithograph, The First Russian Factory of Knitting and Embroidery Paper... by P. Ostashov, dated 1884, is a vibrant advertisement for Maria Vasilievna Sadovayas factory in Moscow.

What I see:

The central figure is a woman dressed in traditional Russian attire, a richly decorated red caftan with intricate embroidery and elaborate jewelry. She stands on a pedestal, holding a circular shield adorned with the Russian imperial coat of arms. Behind her, smoke billows from a tall factory chimney, symbolizing industrial progress.

Below this central tableau, the illustration depicts various scenes related to the factorys operations and products. On the left, a group of people in traditional clothing gather, perhaps representing consumers or workers. In the center, several individuals, including children, are shown engaged in what appears to be the production or packaging of textiles. One figure, possibly a merchant, is seated, observing. On the right, men in more modern attire are walking away from the factory, suggesting the distribution or sale of goods.

The top of the lithograph prominently displays text in Russian. It proclaims: The First Russian Factory of Knitting and Embroidery Paper, and further details that it is a Steam Factory of Tea and Apothecary Knitting, belonging to Maria Vasilievna Sadovaya in Moscow. Two coins, likely awarded for quality or at exhibitions, are also depicted near the central figure.

Subtexts:

• National Pride and Industrialization: The depiction of the factory with a smoking chimney, alongside the mention of First Russian Factory, emphasizes the burgeoning industrialization in Russia and national pride in its economic development. The prominent display of Russian symbols (coat of arms, traditional clothing) reinforces this.
• Quality and Prestige: The coins and the regal stance of the central female figure, who might represent the owner or a symbolic patroness, allude to the high quality and prestige of the factorys products. She appears to be a figure of authority and respect.
• Labor and Production: The scenes below illustrate the practical side of the factory, showing the work involved in producing the knitting and embroidery paper (which likely refers to materials for these crafts, or perhaps decorative papers). The involvement of various individuals, including children, hints at the labor force.
• Modernization vs. Tradition: Theres a visual contrast between the traditional attire of some figures and the clothing of the men walking away on the right, which suggests a more modern style. This could reflect the transition of Russian society during that era, blending traditional elements with the advancements of the industrial age.
• Entrepreneurship: The advertisement highlights a female entrepreneur, Maria Vasilievna Sadovaya, in a period where business leadership was predominantly male. This is a significant aspect of the advertisement.
• Purpose of the Product: The naming of the factory as dealing with knitting, embroidery paper, and tea and apothecary knitting suggests that the products were likely related to textile crafts, possibly decorative papers used for patterns, or even finished embroidered goods and knitted items, possibly marketed for domestic use or as fashionable items. The apothecary knitting might refer to knitted items used for medicinal purposes or bandages.