Show all images on one page	#001523 Title: Princess Swan Artist: Vlezko Vladimir Size: 14x11x4.5 Size (inches): 5.5x4.25x1.75 Price : $425 SOLD!

This elegantly shaped box is painted by the talented Palekh artist Vladimir Vlezko whose works are displayed in the museums of Russia, and numerous private collections. It shows the fantastic island of Prince Gvidon from "The Tale of Tsar Saltan" and all its wonders. In the center of the composition the artist depicts the beautiful Princess Swan. To the right from her there is a squirrel that is cracking golden nuts with emeralds inside and singing songs. The squirrel is sitting in the crystal house guarded by two warriors. A scribe is recording every golden shell and every emerald. To the left from her there are thirty-three handsome young knights and old Chernomor, who everyday emerge from the raging sea to protect the island.
As customary with Palekh tradition, the black lacquer exterior of the box also acts as the background for the compositions. This adds a slick intensity and an overwhelming clarity to the work. The artist uses gold and aluminum to highlight and texture considerable portions of the artistry. The character's clothing takes on a costumed luster. The trees and water seem to breathe. The architecture is now regal and almost ornamental as playful pieces of the ruler's manmade entourage. This presentation is filled with features that act as one.
The box is constructed from paper-mache. Black lacquer is used to paint the exterior of the work while a lavish red lacquer completes the interior of the box. The lid is hinged on top and the box stands on four feet. The lid of the box is decorated with the elegant gold patterns. The sides of the boxes are adorned with more intricate gold and aluminum floral patterns. The box is signed with the artist's name, village, and year (2004).