Russian box "Red Square Moscow", Fedoskino – mother-of-pearl & lacquer painting, hand-painted

This hand-painted Russian box from Fedoskino features a detailed view of Red Square in Moscow with the St. Basil's Cathedral and the Kremlin. The motif is executed in classic Russian lacquer painting, combining fine miniature painting with a mother-of-pearl background that impressively highlights the winter atmosphere of the scene. The shimmering mother-of-pearl creates varying reflections depending on the light, giving the scene depth and a slightly mystical ambiance.

The box is made of high-quality papier-mâché, built up in several layers, pressed, carefully sanded, and primed. On this smooth base, the artist Smirnov applies the motif using traditional techniques before several layers of clear lacquer create a smooth, high-gloss finish. The compact dimensions of 17.4 x 9.1 x 3.3 cm (length x width x height) make the box ideal as a jewelry case, for small collectibles, or as a decorative art object on a sideboard, desk, or in a display cabinet.

The origin Fedoskino is an important quality feature, as this place is known as one of the most renowned schools for Russian lacquer painting. The underside of the box is inscribed in Cyrillic with “Red Square” and “Smirnov”; this inscription documents the motif title and artist, which is crucial for collectors of Russian art. The combination of the signed artist’s name, clearly named motif, and origin makes this piece unmistakably identifiable as an original Russian souvenir and collector’s item.

Technically, the box is characterized by a precise fit of lid and body, clean edges, and an even lacquer finish. The mother-of-pearl background is perfectly integrated into the composition and fully protected by clear lacquer, preserving the material from scratches and wear. Inside, the lacquered papier-mâché body provides a smooth, easy-to-care-for surface that safely holds jewelry, coins, or other small items.

The box is aimed at collectors of Russian miniature painting, lovers of Moscow motifs, and anyone seeking an extraordinary Russian gift with clear provenance and artist signature. With its winter depiction of Red Square, the mother-of-pearl sky, and the signed work by Smirnov, it is an impressive unique piece in any collection.