A grizzled old fisherman looks into the eye of the golden fish that he just snared. The latter promises to make him rich, if he would just let him go. So begins the Russian fairy tale by Alexander Pushkin entitled the "The Tale of the Fish and the Fisherman" and is brought to life by Palekh artist Tatyana Smirnova. This little oval box is a truly a delight to hold and look at. The old man has a magnificently detailed silvery beard and wrinkles in his face that really show his character. The fish, meanwhile, brings a more comical image with his large eye and the itty bitty crown on his head. There is also an inlay of mother of pearl in the body of the fish that glistens as you move the box in your hands. Two green bands that mimic fish scales encircle the box. There is also a skilled gold border on the sides, as well, that incorporates flowers into its design. The box is made out of high quality papier mache and does not have a hinge. Signed on the top with the name of the artist, village a year. On the bottom, Smirnova paints her initials in her usual trademark fashion. A super little piece!

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.)