This magnificent Palekh box, showing a young family's outing in the country, dates back to 1974 and was done by the artist V. Kochupalov. The family crosses a small one-log bridge, and the dog that is leading them knows something interesting is ahead. Indeed, two deer stand there, as well as a bird on a post. They may all dash off when the people arrive, but what will remain are the mushrooms in the ground, and this is quite probably what the family is seeking since they are all holding baskets. The large box immediately draws you in with the gorgeous multicolored trees which extend from one side to the other. Each layer of trees takes on unusual shapes until reaching the sky at the top and the signature black Palekh background. The artist painted a very unique and whimsical side border showing rows of mushrooms along the bottom, and a line of flying geese at the top. (We love the look in each eye of the birds!). The box is in fine shape for being over 35 years old. A very small amount of black lacquer chipped off of one bottom corner, but is not serious. The lacquer on top has thinned a little over the years, revealing some of the brush strokes and texture of the papier mache, but it is still in very nice condition and has a nice shine. The box has a hinge at the top. It lies flat on the table, and is signed with the name of the artist, village, year and inventory number. The artist Vladimir Kochupalov is listed in the book "Palekh Miniaturists" (by E. Bratchikova. Moscow, 1995) as being born in 1937 and completing his schooling at Palekh art school in 1962. According to the book, he also has works in museums in Russia.

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
9.0	9.0	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.)