Three young princes stand back to back, following the flight of their arrows. Their father has ordered them to choose a bride by this unorthodox method, with each to wed the woman closest to their fallen bolt. The elder two have hit the roofs of nice houses, with somewhat startled, but lovely, maidens emerging from each. The youngest Prince, lacking his brothers' strength, could not even get his arrow out of the swamp. His arrow has pierced the lily pad of a tiny golden frog. (To read the whole fairy tale, click here.) The scene is well painted in bright, lively tones, with generous gold and silver accents, which, unfortunately, do not photograph well. The scene is also a good bit brighter in person. 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. There is no hinge, and the interior is red lacquer. The base of this piece is flush. An enchanting version of a favorite tale by the very talented Palekh artist Mikhail Nebogatov.--BOX1109

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.)