The first light of a mother of pearl dawn sweeps across the frozen countryside, its brilliant reflection mirrored in a twin inlay beneath the captive froth of an icy stream. The new day burnishes the treetops copper, calling to mind the glory of autumn, before crowning the snowdrifts with the brilliant glow of morning. Painterly skill creates a dramatic interplay of light and shadow within the scene, which, combined with the mother of pearl inlays, creates a striking range of moods within the scene as the box is turned in the light. A trio of tiny birds circles beneath the cloud strewn sky in search of winter berries, adding a sense of intimacy while emphasizing the grandeur of the scene. This box is made of high quality papier mache and is signed on the lid with the title, artist's name, and date of completion. There is a small scratch to the lacquer just above the foremost pine tree, visible when turning the box at an angle into the glare of the light. Although it appears to be rather innocuous, we have figured a good discount into the price of the box because of it. There is a hinge at the top, and the interior is deep red lacquer. It rests on four curved legs.

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
8.5	9.5	10.0	10.0	10.0	48	9.0

(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.)