Mstera artist Vladimir Molodkin's love of traditional subjects and unusual compositions is evident in this delightful version of The Golden Cockerel. In a striking variation of the traditional Mstera palette of soft, pastel colors, olive, pink, lavendar, and cream give a dreamy, moonlit quality to the scene. At the center of the scene, Tsar Dadon's palace is topped by the enchanted cockerel crying out a warning. A road snakes from the castle gates, leading the eye to Dadon and his army on horseback, setting off to find the reason for the bird's warning, and his missing sons. Dominating the right side is the tent of the Shamakha. The exotic beauty pets a crowing rooster who sits in her lap; a reminder of danger. Tsar Dadon peers shyly into the tent, entranced by the dusky beauty. They return to his kingdom in an elegant carriage at the top of the scene, as the magician waits patiently for their arrival. (To read the whole fairy tale, click here.) The strong circular composition adds a sense of movement, and helps the viewer move through the story. This box is made of high quality papier mache and is signed on the underside of the lid with the title, artist's name, and village. There is a hinge at the top, and the interior is red lacquer. The base of this piece is flush. A superb work from one of Mstera's top artists.--BOX1085

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.)