The city of Moscow unfurls against a cloud strewn sky on this panoramic box by Fedoskino artist P. Balakirev. Mother of pearl glistens on the fanciful spires and domes of the city's legendary churches and Kremlin. Tiny people meander through the snow covered landscape, emphasizing the magnitude of the wondrous architecture, while tiny details add to the realism of the scene. The modern city stretches out behind in soft, hazy tones, giving a sense of the magnificent juxtaposition of old and new Russia in modern day Moscow. The sides are decorated with an elaborate design of gold and silver scroll work with a pair of lions flanking a shield bearing the two headed eagle of the Russian coat of arms. This box is made of high quality papier-mache and is signed on the lid with the artist's name and village. There is a hinge at the top, and the interior is red lacquer. It rests on four curved legs.

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	9.5

(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.)