This distinctive work in mottled red, gold, and black plays host to a beggar and his dog. They stare out balefully, the beggar's upturned hat holding only a few coins. He carries a wooden staff, or crutch, perhaps he is lame. He leans against a tree and stretches out his hand in a silent plea. The dog lays beside him, looking sadly at passersby. The scene is skillfully painted in a smooth, realistic style. The somber earth tones add to the mood. The shape of the box is very unique. It is not entirely obvious, but one can make out that it is shaped like a bird! (See the beak, eyes, overall shape, and hint of feathers at the bottom?) It could be that by choosing this shape, the artist is alluding to the "free as a bird" nature of the beggar. The rear of the box features a panel painted to resemble green and brown tortoise shell, with a small, metal loop for easy opening. This box is made of high quality papier mache and is signed on the back with the artist's name and date of completion. There is a hinge at the top of the rear panel, and the interior is maroon lacquer. The base of this piece is flush. A great miniature work with a lot of character by Miroshnichenko.--BOX1348

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.)