With its quality craftsmanship, the vibrant colors and the simple but effective image it presents, this box from Kholui artist T. Krylova is deceptively good. One of the firebird's feathers is floating down to the lad, Ivan, and the bird does not seem entirely happy with this situation. You you can see it well in his expression. Contrast this with impish look on the face of Ivan. The box has two gold ornaments, one framing the composition and one adorning its sides. It is made out of high quality papier mache and has a hinge. The composition is signed on the top with the name of the village, title and initials on the artist. The name of the artist is revealed, though, on the bottom, where she signed the work there, as well, with her name, the village and title.

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	9.5	10.0	10.0	48.5	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.)