"Three Sisters" lacquer box

Artist: Ovchar
Village: Fedoskino 
Size: 3.875" x 3.25" x 1"  
Year: 1984

This Russian lacquer box, painted in 1984, depicts a scene from the beloved Russian fairy tale "The Tale of Tsar Saltan" by Alexander Pushkin. It shows the three sisters seated on wooden benches, spinning thread and dreaming of their future—just before the youngest is chosen to become the Tsar’s wife, setting the tale in motion.

The composition is graceful and balanced, with the women dressed in richly colored traditional gowns—rose, teal, and blue—each rendered with fine detail and subtle patterning. Behind them, carved spinning wheels add an authentic folk touch, enhancing the storybook feel of the scene.

The lacquer surface shows some softening and texture from its original gloss, as expected from a box painted in the 1980s, but there are no significant cracks or damage. The artistry remains intact and vivid. The piece is signed and dated, adding to its provenance.

This piece is a lovely example of mid-1980s lacquer miniature painting, evoking a nostalgic scene with charm and craftsmanship, even as time has gently aged its finish.