Show all images on one page	#006601 Title: By the Pike's Will Artist: Zakharov Sergey Size: 12.5x6.5x3 Size (inches): 5x2.5x1.25 Price : $890 SOLD!

Emelya is an interesting character. Not in the sense of being a key player in a story, but he is just a character in the figurative sense. His simple view on life and his lazy disposition have always gotten him in trouble. But now with the power that has befallen him he can make the most of his days by simply saying, "By the pike's will, by my own request..." and whatever he said after those words would magically happen.
In this scene Emelya has made it to the Tsar's court in the kingdom's central palace. The Tsar is infuriated with Emelya's luck and power. He has also received numerous complaints from the kingdom's residents and the soldiers to the left are about to take Emelya away. However, when the Tsar's daughter steps in and falls in love with Emelya, the Tsar decides to spare him and let them marry, but after the wedding he puts them in a barrel, seals it, and throws it out to sea. Emelya uses his power to free himself and his wife. As they approach the palace Emelya requests that a palace be built opposite the Tsar's, and it happens. The couple, after receiving forgiveness and blessings from the Tsar, live the rest of their days without a care in the world, all because of the magic pike.
Sergey Zakharov of Kholuy, who painted this piece, has a very distinct style that can immediately be recognized by the minute details and his color usage. The palette incorporates a myriad of bright paints from the cool and warm ends of the spectrum. He uses them in perfect harmony, alternating tones and hues in all the right places. Almost every element of the composition is abundantly detailed with gold paint.
The scene consists of three different focal points: the Tsar and his court with his daughter in the background, Emelya on the stove, and the soldiers. This piece is truly a gem that Sergey Zakharov has let out into the world.
The box is made out of paper-mache made in Kholuy. Black lacquer covers the exterior and red lacquer covers the interior of the box. Zakharov decorates the exterior with ornamentation that complements the ultra-thin line construction in the scene. It is done in gold and aluminum and its linear integrity is never compromised. The box is hinged at the top of the composition and rests on four small rounded foot. The artist wrote the title, Kholuy, 2000, and his surname at the bottom of the scene. He also did so on the interior of the lid, but added that this is a creative original and decorative signature, which he painted with gold upon completion of the box.