This box from Palekh features a scene from the life of St. Daniel the Prophet. Daniel was raised a servant in the household of the king of Babylon after the invasion of Jerusalem. He became a favorite of the king because of his ablities to interpret dreams and omens. After Babylon fell to an invasion the Daniel had predicted, he was thrown to the lions. However, God intervened and sent an angel who held off the lions. The invading king, Darius, then spared his life, and dercreed that all in his kingdom were free to worship Daniel's God. The scene is done in crisp tones and lovely detail. Saint Daniel awakens on a bed of hay, as an angel urges a servant to bring him food and care for him. The lions cower at the walls at the sight of the angel. One paws wildly at the window in hopes of escaping its wrath, and both have terrified expressions. The servant smiles, unaware of the Heavenly guidance which has brought him here, by wrapping an arm around his waist, and leading him by tugging on his hair. The style is very clean and is similar to renaissance art. The scene is framed by gold decorated with dark scrollwork and silver flowers. a border of gold and silver scrollwork rings the lid and is repeated on the body of the piece. This box is made of high quality papier mache and is signed on the lid with the artist's name, village, and date of completion. It has a hinge at the top of the lid and a red lacquer interior. The box stands on four curved legs and is inscribed, "Made in Russia". An inspiring piece by Yu. Pozhidaev.--BOX1124

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
8.5	9.5	10.0	10.0	10.0	48	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.)