Scenes from "The Tale of Tsar Saltan" wrap around this large, samovar shaped box, and it's smaller companion "teapot." The tale begins at the spout, with Prince Gvidon and his mother on the shores of a deserted island. A hawk lays slain at Gvidon's feet; the swan Gvidon protected from the hawk flaps her wings in thanks, offering to be Gvidon's servant. The swan's gift of an enchanted kingdom unfurls along the sides of the box, full of magical treasures. A squirrel busily cracks golden shells to reveal emerald nuts, while an accountant keeps tally. Fierce knights rise from the surrounding seas, guarding Gvidon's citadel. Boatloads of sailors marvel at the sites, bringing word or the wonders to Gvidon's long lost father, Tsar Saltan. The reunion of the family takes place on the rear, while a celebratory feast takes place on the teapot shaped box. Tsar Saltan and his lost queen toast, as do Gvidon and the swan, in her true form as a beautiful princess. The scene is nicely painted, with thoughtfully placed golden accents. Elaborate borders of crimson and gold add to the decoration. This box is made of high quality papier mache and is signed on the underside of the lid with the title, artist's name (A. Kuznetsov), and village. There is no hinge, and the interior is red lacquer. It rests on four curved legs.--BOX1066

Lacquerbox Condition Ratings

Surface Condition (exterior)	Surface Condition (interior/bottom)	Box Materials and Soundness	Hinge and Lid Placement	Signature	Total Rating	Mother-of-pearl Condition
9.5	9.5	10.0	10.0	10.0	49	N/A

(Each category rated 1-10. For low scores, look for explanation in the description of box. In general, any total rating over 40 is excellent. For more information on rating system, click here.)