Vintage Russian Palekh Lacquer Box Hand Painted Hexagonal Folk Art Miniature

A charming vintage Russian lacquer miniature box, believed to originate from Palekh, one of the historic centres of Russian lacquer miniature painting.

This unusual hexagonal box is beautifully hand decorated against a traditional glossy black ground. The lid depicts two figures in colourful traditional-style dress within a stylised landscape, with rich red, ochre, green and gold tones. Fine gold-coloured ornamentation runs around the outer border, giving the box a particularly attractive decorative finish.

There is a hand-painted Cyrillic inscription beneath the scene which appears consistent with Palekh attribution, although it is indistinct and I have therefore not attributed the work to a specific artist.

The box has the characteristic red lacquered interior associated with traditional Russian lacquerware and appears to be constructed in the traditional papier-mâché manner. The hinged lid opens to reveal a wonderfully vibrant red interior contrasting beautifully with the black exterior.

The hexagonal shape is particularly appealing and makes this a lovely display piece as well as a collectable example of Russian decorative art.

Approximate dimensions:
9.5 cm × 8.5 cm × 3 cm

Condition:
Good vintage condition with light surface wear, minor marks and rubbing consistent with age and previous handling. There are remnants of an old label to the underside. The hinge is intact and functioning, and the painted decoration remains colourful and displays very well.

Please study all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description.

A lovely piece for a collector of Russian lacquer miniatures, Palekh-style painting, Russian folk art or vintage decorative boxes.