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"Sleeping Beauty" Russian Lacquer Box
"Sleeping Beauty" Russian Lacquer Box
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Artist: Vera Smirnova
Village: Palekh, Russia
Medium: Egg tempera and gold/silver leaf on papier-mâché
Dimensions: 7.5" x 5.5" x 1.5"
Date: 2016
Description:
This exquisite Russian lacquer box by master artist Vera Smirnova illustrates the timeless fairy tale Sleeping Beauty, originally told by Charles Perrault. Rendered in breathtaking detail, the scene captures the pivotal moment of enchantment and impending rescue. The slumbering princess lies under a spell cast by the malevolent fairy, painted in fiery tones to the left. Opposite her, the benevolent fairy counteracts the curse with protective magic, her gesture graceful and calm. Below, the gallant prince stands poised before a richly adorned palace, his loyal steed at his side, ready to break through the barrier of enchanted thorns, bats, and stone walls to awaken the princess.
Smirnova’s mastery of egg tempera painting shines in the delicate faces of each character, which are soft, expressive, and shaded with remarkable nuance—a testament to her skill on such a small and unforgiving surface. The palette glows with fine gold and silver filigree that embellishes every element, from garments and trees to architectural flourishes, lending the composition a luminous, almost regal radiance.
The box itself is made of high-quality papier-mâché, with a high-gloss lacquer finish that is flawlessly polished. It stands on four small legs and opens on a side hinge to reveal a rich red interior. A slim gold border frames the front composition, with a more elaborate gold ornamentation around the sides. Smirnova’s signature, along with the village name (Palekh) and year (2016), appears at the bottom edge of the scene.
A true collector’s piece—this box is not only a tribute to classic folklore but also to the enduring tradition of Russian miniature painting at its finest.

