An phantom-like image of an elderly woman, with a basket of snowflakes (or are they flowers?), stands over a small village and a group of excited children below. Perhaps she is a symbol of winter, or perhaps she comes from the vivid imagination of the children, collectively recalling the kind hearted Babushka they once had. The buildings look a little more European than Russian, and the scene is lively in activity. Sparse lines and dots of gold leaf and silver bring out the details in the buildings, people and snow. The highly original box was done by Palekh artist Tatyana Smirnova in her distinctive crossover style which seems to blend the artistic styles of both Palekh and Fedoskino. A fine gold ornament frames the drawing and another one decorates the sides. The box has four small round legs, a hinge at the left, and a red interior. It is signed on the bottom of the drawing with the name of the artist, village and year. A highly original winter scene that may help bring back some warm memories.

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.)