Show all images on one page	#003649 Title: Sivka-Burka Artist: Tikhomirov Valentin Size: 25x18.5x5.5 Size (inches): 9.75x7.25x2 Price : $1350 SOLD!

This beautiful piece of genuine Russian artistry was composed by well-known Mstera master Valentin Tikhomirov. It shows several scenes from the Russian folk fairy-tale "Sivka-Burka".
The plot of this tale is similar to the plot of "Humpbacked Little Pony" written in verse by the Soviet writer Peter Yershov. It tells about the adventures of the youngest of three brothers, Ivan the Simpleton. The brothers' father died, and asked them before his death: "When I die, I want each of you to come to my grave and bring me some bread". The older brothers were afraid of going to their father's grave at night, and asked Ivan to replace them. So, Ivan was the only son who managed to fulfill his father's last wish. He was rewarded for his courage and responsibility. His father presented him the magic horse, Sivka-Burka that was ready to serve Ivan. Very soon Ivan asked Sivka-Burka to help him. He knew that the Tsar's daughter, Incomparable Beauty, had ordered to build her a high tower. Whoever was able to reach the balcony from the ground and could kiss her wonderful lips would be her bridegroom. With the help of Sivka-Burka's magic powers, Ivan could easily fulfill this wish of the princess and became her husband.
The left upper and the right bottom corners of the box feature Ivan the Simpleton and his magic horse, Sivka-Burka. The left bottom corner shows Ivan riding Sivka-Burka, and his older brothers riding their steeds behind Ivan. They intend to take part in the competitions arranged by the princess. Ivan is dressed in the rich costume given him by Sivka-Burka, whereas his brothers wear the plain peasant costumes. The right upper and the central scenes depict the competition. Ivan riding Sivka-Burka gives a magnificent leap, high up into the air. He reaches the balcony where the princess stands and has time to kiss her. The tsar and all people of the kingdom are opened their mouths with amazement. Ivan is a winner, and now the princess must marry him.
The composition is framed with a wide band of Tikhomirov style patterns painted in very rich yellow and golden paints. The box's sides are decorated with another band of Tikhomirov style patterns painted in gold paints. Very exclusive!
The box is constructed from paper-mache. Black lacquer is used to paint the exterior while red lacquer completes the interior of the piece. The box is hinged from the top of the composition, and rests on four legs. The work is signed and titled by the artist.