This delightful work from Ch. Khromova is based on a work by Denis Molodkin which is not only featured in the book, "Russian Lacquer Painting 21st Century," but is also the cover illustration. The astounded old man leans over the prow of his weather-beaten dinghy, marvelling at the magical golden fish. The fish gives of a brilliant glow which falls upon the fisherman and the fantastic fish which ring him. An underwater palace is visible in the depths below, indicative of the fish's status. The strange parade of grotesque fishes circle the golden fish, each eating the tail of the next is symbolic of the fisherman's wife's greed. No matter what wish the fish grants her, she sends her husband back to beg for more until the fish finally takes everything away. (To read the whole fairy tale, click here.)The scene is beautifully painted in dramatic colors, which create a lovely illusion of play of light using painterly skill alone. Delicate traceries of gold frame the scene, exploding in undulating masses atop the circular portion of the unusually shaped composition, reinforcing the strong sense of movement within the piece. This box is made of high quality papier mache and is signed on the lid with the title, artist's name, and village. There is a hinge at the top, and the interior is red lacquer. It stands on four round legs.--BOX1498

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.)