A man leaps up from the table and startles his companions during a dramatic telling of "The Scarlet Flower." The tale begins with a merchant being pounced upon by a hideous beast as he tried to pluck a perfect scarlet flower for his youngest daughter. They shrink back at his sudden roar, the women peeking out from behind their companions. The largest portion of the scene the merchant's three daughters revelling in the gifts their father has brought home from his travels. The eldest sisters preen in new finery before an open window, attracting the attention of a pair of young men. The youngest seems lost in wonder at the scarlet flower her father brought back for her. Even the cat playing close to her feet cannot steal her attention from the enchanted blossom. The scene is painted on high quality papier mache and is signed on the lid with the title and artist's name (O. Yakivchik). The sides of this box are covered in delicate wire filigree, with a tiny latch for the lid. It rests on three curved legs. There is a hinge at the top, and the interior is lined with deep blue velvet.

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.)