The Tale of Tsar Saltan is painted on this miniature work by Palekh artist Dugina back in 1982. The sides shows the Tsar's son (Prince Gvidon), and the queen, coming to the kingdom and seeing a magnificent kingdom. Another side shows Gvidon at the moment he met the winged Swan Princess, who thanks him for saving her life. And on the lid, the story's culmination, the wedding feast of Prince Gvidon and the Swan Princess. Here the Tsar and Tsarina raise their glasses to the new couple.

The box is a true miniature, done exceptionally well throughout with fine precision. Tiny brush strokes of gold leaf, achieved by using one or two hairs of a squirrel's tale, accentuate the drawings without overpowering them. The wedding feast on top feels very comfortable to the viewer as the kingdom's olive walls and structures cradle the festivities within. The box is made out of high quality papier mache and has no hinge. It sits flat on the table with no legs. Signed with the name of the artist, title, and year.

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
9.0	9.5	10.0	10.0	10.0	48.5	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.)