This impressive box from P. Suloev tells the tale of Tsar Saltan in a trio of vignettes framed by ornate gold and silver borders. The smaller, circular scenes show the exiled queen and her son, Prince Gvidon, shortly after their arrival on the seemingly deserted island. The queen sits on the beach, leaning against the cask in which she and her son were thrown into the sea as the result of a cruel prank by her jealous sisters. Young Prince Gvidon, investigating his new home, finds a raven tormenting a swan, and kills the tormentor. The grateful swan, who is really an enchanted princess, grants his wishes and helps reunite him with his father. The joyous family reunion plays out in the large, central scene. The swan princess quietly steps away to let the family catch up, while the queen's jealous sisters make a less graceful escape in a boat, terrified of the consequences should their prank be exposed. This box is made of high quality papier mache and is signed on the lid with the artist's ame, village, and date of completion. 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	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.)