Show all images on one page	#001646 Title: Marriage in Kana Galilleyskaya Artist: Kurilov Vladimir Size: 18.5x24.5x4.5 Size (inches): 9.75x7.25x1.75 Price : $850 SOLD!

This extraordinary piece is the creation of Vladimir Kurilov of Palekh. It is called "Kana Galilleyskaya" and depicts a scene pained on biblical subject.
Kana Galilleyskaya is the town in ancient Israel. Once in this town the wedding of an old shepherd's son was arranged. Just before the wedding took place, the old shepherd accidentally met Jesus Christ and Marya Magdalina. Jesus Christ was taking a rest near the well while Marya was washing his legs. The old shepherd knew that Jesus Christ was the Saint and heard about his wonders, and by this reason he invited him to the wedding. Jesus Christ accepted his offer and promised to give his blessing to his son. When Jesus Christ came to the wedding, all the guests were shocked that he came there together with the sinner Marya Magdalina. They started shouting that she had to leave the feast. Jesus Christ defended Marya Magdalina and created one of his wonders: he turned water into wine.
Kurilov demonstrates the long tradition of Palekh icon painting characterized by a complex multi-figured composition, contrasting bright colors, and elongated figures. The background is left black and gold highlighting is used throughout the composition, both characteristics of Palekh miniature art. In this composition every great attention to detail is executed throughout.
Bold and vivid tones of red, orange, ochre, yellow, green and blue paint are taken from the artist's palette to create this scene. The subtle application of gold and aluminum paint to the scene illuminates the box and adds detail, highlighting almost all aspects of the composition. All the elements of the composition have been painstakingly painted with a fine brush. This work by Kurilov is remarkable because of its superb brushwork, level of artistry, color usage, and decoration.
The box is made out of paper-mache made in the village of Palekh. Black lacquer covers the exterior and red lacquer covers the interior of the box. The composition is framed with a line of silver and gold beading. Along the sides of this large piece is a delicate gold foliage filigree with silver flowers. More silver beading with gold accents runs along the bottom edge of the box. The lid is hinged from the top of the composition, and the piece rests flat. It is signed and dated by Kurilov. Truly a masterpiece!