Standing at the edge of a forest, Alyonushka holds an apple that Ivanushka would like. But no, no, there is danger in some of the most tempting things: and in fact, Ivanushka does soon get turned into a goat. Fedoskino artist Oleg Yastrebov, whose work is featured in "Russian Lacquer Miniatures, Palekh, Mstiora, Fedoskino, Kholui", paints the two with great detail throughout. The dark trees in the forest to the left contrast with the golden light of the clearing and distant house to the right. A similar contrast is seen on the bottom of the box, as well, where a tree and a bush overlook a radiant body of water and a far off kingdom. Subtle, well executed ornaments are drawn around the composition and on the sides.

The box is made out of high quality papier mache and has a hinge on the left. The clear lacquer has a nice shine, but has thinned slightly, revealing some of the artist's brushstrokes. The inside is a handsome mix of copper and browns. The box is signed on the bottom with the name of the artist 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
9.0	9.5	10.0	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.)