Show all images on one page	#001983 Title: Dobrynya Nikitich-A legendary bogatyr Artist: Stepanov Andrey Size: 18x13x4.5 Size (inches): 7x5x1.75 Price : $925 SOLD!

This stunning box was painted by Stepanov from the village of Kholui. It depicts the legendary Bogatyr warrior known as Dobrynya Nikitich. He is known primarily for his dramatic battles with dragons. Here we can see the feast arranged in the palace of Prince Vladimir to celebrate the victory won by Dobrynya over the damned Dragon. This Dragon has stolen the Prince Vladimir's niece, Zabava Potyatichna, and Dobrynya has been sent to kill the Dragon and save Zabava. Here we can see Zabava Potyatichna sitting at the head of the table. Not far from her sits Dobrynay dressed in the blue attire, while Prince Vladimir is depicted behind her back dressed in the red attire.
The palette is based on beautiful combinations of blue, red, and orange tones. The composition is complex. It includes nineteen scrupulously painted human figures, and detailed architecture. The human figures are drawn in a stylized manner reminiscent of icons; each of them has an individual look. Gold paint is used to detail the costumes of separate characters, and to paint the cupolas of the cathedrals depicted in the background.
Gold filigree frames the scene. More complex gold and aluminum ornamentation wraps around the sides of the box.
The box is constructed from paper-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 top of the composition and the box rests on four legs. Signed with the artist's name, the village (Kholui), and the title ("Dobrynya Nikitich") at the bottom of composition.