The Snowmaiden swoons in the summer sun, as Lel tries desperately to shield her from its heat. The forest creatures she has befriended rush out in alarm at her cry, trying to save their friend from danger. The landscape is a riot of lush foliage in bold colors, but the maiden, like the personification of the sun, is rendered in pale tones, kissed with delicate silver accents, belying her supernatural origins. The village rises in the distance, but the sheltering roofs are too far; the Snowmaiden must find thick shade quickly or she will succumb. This box is made of high quality papier mache and is signed on the lid with the title, artist's name, and village. There is a hinge on the left, and the interior is lined with red felt. The base of this piece is flush. A delightful interpretation of a favorite tale by I. Mitrofanova. --BOX1127

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.)