Show all images on one page	#005167 Title: Ruslan and Ludmila Artist: Shirokov Anatoliy Size: 24x18x5 Size (inches): 9.5x7x2 Price : $1450 SOLD!

This highly attractive piece of genuine Russian artistry was created by Mstera Master Anatoliy Shirokov. And as always, this piece is a feast for the eyes, and a handsome addition to any collection!
The box shows some scenes from the classic Russian fairy-tale of Ruslan and Ludmila. A favorite among Russian tales, Ruslan and Ludmila was written in poetic form by the Russia's most beloved writer, Alexander Pushkin.
At the bottom of the composition we can see Alexander Pushing dreaming of the fairy-tale word inhabited by fantastic creatures, brave warriors and beautiful ladies. All around him the artist has painted various characters and some moments of the tale that are easily recognizable. Here we can see the evil wizard Chernomor kidnapping Lyudmila, the Giant Head, the thirty three warriors, the old Finn, Baba-Yaga, Rusalka and some others.
The composition demonstrates the unique and impeccable painting style of Anatoly Shirokov. The palette is filled with various tones of green tempera paints. Lustrous gold paint is used to decorate the characters' costumes, to create the rays of the sun and the halo around the figure of Alexander Pushkin. More gold radiance can be found in the sumptuous patterns that frame the composition.
On the box's sides the artist has painted four additional scenes from Ruslan and Lyudmila and its introduction using tempera paints. The front side shows the Clever Cat walking on the golden chain that encompasses the old oak tree. On the right side the artist has painted the medieval Russian town while on the left side we can see Ruslan searching Lyudmila. The rear side depicts Baba-Yaga riding her mortar. Besides these scenes the sides of the box are decorated with gold patterns.
The box is made of paper-mache. Black lacquer is used to paint the exterior of the piece while red lacquer completes the interior of the box. The lid is hinged from the top of the composition, and the box rests on four legs. The work is signed with the artist's name, Mstera and the title.