An unusual version of the tale, "Vasilisa the Wise" comes to life in the distinctive style which earned artists S. and K. Komogovory a place in the recent book, "Russian Lacquer Miniatures." Although the tale is unfamiliar, it is easy to get caught up in the story! A plethora of fantastical beasts and richly dressed nobles keep the legendary beauty, Vasilisa the Wise, company, including a winged cow guarding a clutch of eggs. Glittering golden creatures parade around the bevelled edge of the lid, accented with brilliant red and blue accents. Mythical beings seem to peek from every cranny of Vasilisa's cottage as the fat old king kneels before her to ask a favor. A fiery beast wreaks havoc upon a village as a king and his retinue take flight in a ship borne aloft by a parachute and floating fish on the sides. The front panel holds a lovely feast, perhaps a wedding, as a giant beast peers through the door at the happy couple. A wealth of detail shimmers with generous golden accents and rich, vibrant colors throughout the work; even the thin golden border along the bottom of the box is teeming with miniscule people and beasts! This box is made of high quality papier mache and is signed on its base with the title, artist's name, and village. There is a hinge at the top, and the interior ia red lacquer. It rests on four round feet.

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.)