Two favorite Russian fairy tale themes, the water of life and the forest tale are represented on this striking fiddle shaped box. The lid has a young man on horseback approaching a dwarf at a well. In the story "The Water of Life," the dwarf knew the secret of where to find the magical water, and only the youngest prince was not too stubborn to ask him for help. The opposite features a young girl emerging from the woods to find the familiar and ominous hut on hen's legs. Most of the forest tales feature wickedness being overcome by good deeds and a kind heart. Shimmering iridescent foil adds an interesting touch to the background. This box is made of high quality papier mache and is signed on each side with the title, and on the lid with the artist's name (Ivanov) and village as well. There is a hinge, and the interior is red lacquer. It rests upright on an elegant black lacquer base decorated with swirling of gold, silver, and blue motifs.--BOX1117

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.)