Vintage Russian Palekh Lacquer Box – Hand Painted Fairy Tale Scene 1991 5.3"

Description

View Vintage Russian Palekh Lacquer Box – Hand Painted Fairy Tale Scene 1991 5.3" with current marketplace pricing, condition, product images and item details. The hinged lid features a beautifully composed scene from a Russian fairy tale orbylina (epic poem). The painting is executed against a stark black background, which makes the warm oranges, reds, and golds of the tempera paint "pop.". Item specifics: Culture:  Russian / Eastern European (Post-Soviet Transition Era)  Type:  Hand-painted Lacquer Box / Hinged Trinket Box  Style:  Traditional Palekh School (Miniature Painting)  Material:  Papier-mâché, black lacquer, egg tempera paint, gold detailing  Dimensions:  5.3 x 4 x 1 in (13.5 x 10.2 x 2.5 cm)  Condition:  Good vintage condition – the box structure is sound and the interior red lacquer is vibrant and clean.  Note:  The exterior varnish on the lid shows significant, consistent craquelure (fine spiderweb cracking) across the surface, which is common for lacquer of this age but visually distinct. Description A detailed and vibrant vintage Russian lacquer box originating from the famous village of  Palekh , a center of Russian miniature painting. Dated 1991, this piece captures the transitional period of Russian art following the Soviet era. The hinged lid features a beautifully composed scene from a Russian fairy tale or  bylina  (epic poem). It depicts a central male figure, likely a shepherd or musician, seated in a meadow playing a pipe or flute. He is flanked by two female figures standing within stylized architectural arches or towers. The painting is executed against a stark black background, which makes the warm oranges, reds, and golds of the tempera paint "pop." The box features the traditional bright red lacquered interior. The artwork is framed by intricate gold scrollwork borders. Key features: Signed & Dated:  Inscribed in gold Cyrillic at the bottom: serial number "N 246" (left), "Palekh - 1991" (center), and the artist's name "Repkina S." (right). Palekh Style:  Characterized by elongated figures, fine details, and extensive use of gold highlighting on a black ground. Vibrant Interior:  Features the classic "Russian Red" interior lacquer in excellent condition. Folk Narrative:  A charming depiction of rural courtship or musical storytelling. Vintage Character:  While the surface shows age-related crazing, the painting remains clear and colorful, offering an authentic vintage aesthetic. Category: Collectibles › Cultures & Ethnicities › Russian.

Provenance

S-Petersburg

Featured Refinements

Russian Lacquer Box

Handmade

Yes

Culture

Russian