Ivanushka had disobeyed his sister and drank from the forbidden goat's hoof. Now, in the shape of a goatling, he is leading Alyonushka across the fields. Alyonushka leans forward slightly and extends her arm, as if to pet him. Ivanushka's white coat stands out against the green, blue, and orange hues in the rest of the painting, making him the focal point of the composition. Alyonushka's sleeves echo the whiteness of Ivanushka's coat, underlining the connection between the two siblings - so strong, that even the evil forces will not be able to surmount it.

This tiny box is made from papier mache. It sits flat with no legs, and opens without a hinge. The interior is red. Signed with the name of the artist, composition, and village. A speck of dust must have gotten under the lacquer, because there is a tiny, almost unnoticeable grainy spot to the left of Alyonushka, visible under close examination and/or touching the surface. Otherwise, the box and lacquer are in good condition.