Russian lacquer box "Tsar Saltan" – hand-painted fairy tale art, Fedoskino

This hand-painted Russian lacquer box from Fedoskino features a detailed motif from the well-known Russian fairy tale “The Tale of Tsar Saltan.” The scene is executed in the style of classic Russian miniature painting, with finely crafted figures, ornamental details, and a harmonious color scheme on a dark background. The combination of fairy tale imagery, precise line work, and bright accents creates an impressive art piece for lovers of Russian lacquer painting and collectors of literary motifs.

The box is made from traditional papier-mâché, built up in several layers, pressed, thoroughly sanded, and primed. On this smooth base, the artist M.A. Nurdina hand-paints the motif before several layers of clear lacquer provide a high-gloss, durable surface. Measuring 16.7 x 12.0 x 4.8 cm (length x width x height), the lacquer box offers enough space for jewelry, small collectibles, or personal keepsakes while remaining compact enough for a display case, sideboard, or desk.

The lid is inscribed in Cyrillic with “Fedoskino,” “The Tale of Tsar Saltan,” “M.A.N,” and “2015.” These details document the origin, motif title, artist’s initials, and year of creation. For collectors of Russian lacquer art, this information is especially important as it clearly verifies authenticity, chronological placement, and stylistic affiliation with the Fedoskino painting school. The Fedoskino origin represents one of the most traditional workshops of Russian lacquer miniatures, known for high craftsmanship and artistic finesse.

Technically, the Russian lacquer box impresses with a precisely fitting lid, neatly lacquered edges, and an even, deep dark base coat that optimally highlights the colors and gold accents of the fairy tale motif. The interior surfaces are lacquered, providing a smooth, easy-to-clean finish that protects the contents from dust and scratches. The sturdy papier-mâché body, multi-layer lacquer build-up, and careful polishing ensure that the box brings lasting joy both in daily use and in a collector’s display case.

The box is aimed at collectors of Russian art, lovers of classic fairy tale illustrations, and anyone seeking an extraordinary Russian gift with clear provenance and a signed artist. With its combination of literary motif, Fedoskino tradition, and the signed work of M.A. Nurdina, this lacquer box is a striking unique piece in any collection.