The great whale "Chewda Youda" from the fairy tale "The Humpbacked Pony" is the centerpiece of this box by Palekh artist Nina Suloeva, and all the action happens around him. Chewda Yuda had been beached as punishment for swallowing three dozen ships. He also has a small village now growing on his back! But things may soon get better for him, and you can read the story here. Above him flies Ivan Tsarevich on his lifelong friend the Humpbacked Pony who helps him through thick and thin. On each side of Ivan are the sun and the moon (the father and mother of the Tsar Maiden who eventually Ivan marries.)

Palekh artist Suloeva perfectly captures the flavor and whimsical nature of one of Russia's most beloved fairy tales. The blue ocean, and whitecap waves within, create a lovely separation from the other details that occupy perimeter areas of the drawing. Everything is done in great detail and in the highest standards of Palekh art. The gold and silver borders are also done very intricately and with great care. The box has a hinge and the interior is red. It sits flat on the surface of a table with no legs. Signed with the name of the artist, village and title. Excellent example of miniature fairy tale painting from a master Palekh artist.