Palekh artist N. Kurkina combines lush tropical foliage, brilliant gold foil, and art noveau styling to create a sensuous fantasy. Entitled "Orchid," this box was one of a series of three, each featuring a different embodiment of a flower. The box's flush base is adorned with a single pink orchid against brilliant gold leaf. A wide border teeming with different varities of the box's namesake blossoms frames a tropical paradise of golden sands, sinuous waterfalls, swaying ponds, and exotic beauty. A pale beauty with hair like liquid gold has been caught emerging from her bath in the cascades. Her jewelry sparkles in the sun as she gazes at the viewer, as though to say, "I did not see you there" while reaching for her garment. Kurkina's sensitive, etheral style has won her mention in the book "Russian Laquer Painting: 21st Century" This box is made of high quality papier mache and is signed on the lid with the title, artist's name, village, and date of completion. There is a hinge on the left, and the interior is deep red lacquer.

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.)