Two young women trade gossip in this lovely wintry scene from the village of Palekh. Two little birds by the old wooden well, meanwhile, may be engaging in a little gossip, or chirping, of their own. Nicely drawn throughout and framed with a fine gold and silver ornament on the top and sides. It is made out of high quality papier mache and has a hinge. Signed on the bottom with the name of the artist (N. Zolotareva), village and year.

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.)