This delightful work from Palekh tells the Tale of the Dead Princess in the bold colors and delicate golden tracery the village is known for. The harmonious composition features the fair princess and her jealous stepmother at opposite sides of the scene. The princess waves sadly to the kind bogatyrs who have taken her in, as they set out on the days adventures. Meanwhile, the wicked queen raises an arm in rage that the princess is still alive. A nearby peasant woman cringes at the display, unaware that she will play a role in the queen's scheme of revenge. At the top of the scene, the princess's devoted fiance rides to the ends of the earth, searching for his beloved. He beseeches the sun and moon for help in finding her. At center is the happy reunion of the couple. They dance in glee at finding each other again, as a corner of the glass casket peeks out from behind them. This box is made of high quality papier mache and is signed on the lid with the title, artist's name (V. Kurbatov), village, and date of completion. There is a hinge at the top, and the interior is red lacquer. It rests on four round legs, and the base is inscribed, "Made in Russia," and bears an elaborate golden ornament. A striking fairy tale work.

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.)