by Andrew Jenks. (Northern Illinois University Press, 2005.)



This book looks in depth at the history and artistic traditions of the village of Palekh, a former village of icon painters that now specializes in lacquer box miniatures. With truly remarkable research, the author shows that the development of this artist community was anything but a smooth ride during the 20th century. Caught between its religious traditions, the capricious nature of the marketplace, and conflicting directions from above, the village underwent numerous transformations throughout the century. Although the town enjoyed its share of success including the critical acclaim it received during a prestigious Paris art exhibition, it has also been set back by much uncertainty and tragedy, like the execution of Alekandr Zubkov, director of the village art cooperative, during the Stalin purges of the 1930's. The book includes 27 photographs of boxes, icons, and the artists themselves. A scholarly study and a must read for anyone interested in the art and history of this village.