The unmistakable style of Palekh artist Evgeniya Nebogatova brings to life the classic ballet, "The Nutcracker". Her trademark pastels, liberal use of metallic paints, sumptuous curves and maximum use of space make for an exquisite piece of art. A cluster of musicians and their conductor play for the dancers under ornate columns and arches as the prince (formerly the nutcracker) presents Clara with the seven headed mouse king's crown. A gilt fountain flows in the background as a horse drawn carriage waits in the back ground. Along the sides, a fierce battle rages between the nutcracker's troops and the mouse army. On the front, the mouse king himself is surrounded by soldiers with tiny muskets topped with bayonets. Several rather ordinary folks are involved in the fight; jesters taunt the mice, while merchants throw fruit and pastries at the rodents, and a farmer pokes the with his pitchfork. Even a musician has been caught in the fray, he swings his violin to swat at a mouse while silvery puffs of musket smoke fill the air. The piece seems alive with movement and whimsical touches abound, like the confused monkey perched in the jester's hand. This box is made of high quality papier mache and is signed on the lid with the artist's name, village, and date of completion. It stands on four round legs and has a hinge the top and a red interior. A charming vision of the beloved ballet.

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.)