V. Chibisova from Palekh brings the Leshiy, a benevolent forest spirit from Russian folklore, to life in the couple's signature style of brilliant colors, elegant lines, realistic style, and "reverse painted" golden accents. The bearded caretaker of the forest dips an elegant vessel into a rough hewn bucket, perhaps an offering of honey from the kind eyed bear. A bevy of tiny and intricately detailed creatures pay their respects to their protector and master, peering at the viewer from surprising hiding places. In the distance, a golden sunset warms the river beneath a trio of miniature ships. The gilded glow of the water's surface perfectly complements the delicate golden accents which glisten throughout the scene (but, alas, do not photographs well). Sinuous tangles of the Chibisovs' signature "reverse painted" trim wraps around the lid, bearing the signature in its folds. The brilliant golden scrollwork is continued on the sides against a background of rich blue, with fantastical beasts tangled in the swirls. 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, as well as on the underside of the lid with the title, artist's name, village, date of completion, and the inscription, "In mythology, there was a famous caretaker of the forest with unlimited powers. All the birds and animals were under his command and obeyed his will". There is a hinge on the left, and the interior is red lacquer. The flush base is decorated with more goldwork featuring a design of swirls and blossoms.

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.)