Prince Gvidon introduces his enchanted bride to his mother, who has met her many times before, but never in her true form. Gvidon's citadel, created by the swan pincess, rises behind the trio. The effects of time cannot disguise the quality and charm of this nearly 70 year old work. Its coating of clear lacquer has thinned and settled, creating a texture similar to leather on the lid. Fine golden accents wink and beckon, their bright gleam softened into a warm, mysterious glow. The sides are starting to craze, but this does not appear to endanger the structural integrity of the work. There are also two chips on the front; one on the underside of the lid, and another on the body of the box. These do not appear to threaten the art on the lid, or the box itself. The box is made of high quality papier mache and is signed on the lid with the artist's name and date of completion. there is a hinge at the top, and the interior is red lacquer. The flush base bears the phrase, "Made in Soviet Union," which is partially rubbed off. A fascinating example of early Palekh lacquer art. The box was done by Palekh artist Alexander Shuranov (1900-1942). Despite his short career and life, presumably cut short by WWII, works by Shuranov can be found in the Palekh museum and in the Museum of Folk Art [according to the reference book "Palekh Miniaturists" by E. Bratchikova (ZAO Izdatelskij Dom, Moscow, 1995.)] --BOX1116

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
5.0	8.0	10.0	10.0	10.0	43	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.)