Enemy armies march towards Tsar Dadon's kingdom on this box based on the "Tale of the Golden Cockerel". Dadon was known as a ruthless warlord in his youth, but now that he is an old man, his enemies are intent on revenge! In desperation, he has summoned his astrologer, who presents him with an enchanted golden cockerel, which will cry out, and point in the direction of danger. In return, the astrologer asked only that Dadon grant him one wish in the future. The cockerel saved the kingdom many times in the next years. One day, it cried out a warning like none before, and Dadon sent an army, led by his son, to investigate. When a week had passed, with no word, he sent another force, led by his other son. After another week with no news, Dadon set off himself. He found the armies slaughtered in a ravine, and his sons dead before a silk tent, apparently killed by each other! A woman of unimaginable beauty, the Shamakha Queen, emerged from the tent, and Dadon was instantly smitten, forgetting the loss of his only sons. He brought the Shamakha queen back to the palace, intent on marriage. Suddenly, the astrologer appears, demanding the Queen as payment for the cockerel! The scene is marvelously painted by A. Arapov in rich, bold colors against a striking black background, with lush metallic accents. A multitude of tiny figures painted in slendid detail, brings the story to life! 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. There is a hinge on the left, and the interior is red lacquer. It stands on four round legs. A spectacular fairy tale scene by one of Palekh's leading artists, Andrej Arapov.--BOX1038

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.)