This cello shaped by by Palekh artist E. Bykova shows three images of St. Petersburg. One of the drawings shows something not often seen, or even known, about St. Petersburg to one who has never been there. Yes, they do have a sphinx (the Russian government purchased several a long time ago), and as one writer put it, it is probably the only place in the world you will see a sphinx covered in snow. On the other side of the instrument, two young women skate joyfully in front the stately architecture, with splashes of light in the sky above them. These splashes of light continue on all sides and the overall atmosphere is very festive. The box sits upright on a stand, shaped in back like a horseshoe. And there is a tree, more architecture and the Neva river on the base of the stand (not in photos here). Delightful work all around and you really get a lot for your money in this one.

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.)