An elderly man in a simple brown robe gazes out from beneath an unusual hat, its dark, organic form calling to mind the Leschii, a type of forest spirit which sometimes disguise themselves with mushroom shaped hats. The unflinching light on his face and hands throw the effects of time into craggy relief, but the sitter seems unconcerned, seemingly regaling the painter with tales of his youth. The scene is beautifully painted in rich earth tones, with a lovely play of light and shadow celebrating the well earned marks of age. This box is made of high quality papier mache and is signed on the lid with the artist's name (Zaokuchieva). There is a hinge on the left, and the interior is deep red lacquer. The base of the piece is flush. A heartfelt portrait.--BOX1245

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.)