Mstera Russian Lacquer Box "Scarlet Flower" by Kuznetsova

Description

This luxuriant Mstera box is a creation of Olga Kuznetsova. It depicts a scene from the popular Russian fairy-tale “The Scarlet Flower”, written by S.T. Aksakov. The tale is very similar to what we know today as “Beauty and the Beast.” This thrilling tale tells about love of a beautiful girl and a horrible beast that afterwards will turn into a handsome prince.
In the center of the composition we can see the girl looking with admiration at the magic scarlet flower whereas all around this scene the artist has painted the key moments from this interesting tale. In the foreground the action takes place inside the Monster’s sumptuous palace while the background is filled with the episodes that take place outside the palace. The composition is painted in soft pastels and richly detailed with brilliant gold paint. Gold paint is also used to decorate the box’s exterior with very elaborate and ornate patterns.
The box is constructed from papier-mache. Black lacquer is used to paint the exterior of the box while red lacquer completes the interior of the work. The lid is hinged from the left of the composition, and the box rests on four legs. The work is signed with the artist’s name, the year, and the village of Mstera.
Size: 6.25 x 4.75 x 2.75 inches.
Condition:  Mint in original box, like new, no wear of any kind, from smoke-free environment.