Vintage Russian Lacquer Double Box Hand Painted Folk Art Miniature 7cm Trinket Box

A charming vintage Russian lacquered trinket box featuring a colourful hand-painted folk-art scene and an unusual double-compartment / two-tier construction.

The square black lacquered box has a raised circular miniature to the upper lid, depicting two traditionally dressed figures in a colourful landscape. The scene is surrounded by delicate gold-coloured ornamental decoration.

What makes this example particularly interesting is its construction. The upper section opens to reveal a small red-lined compartment, while the second hinged section opens to reveal a larger red lacquered compartment beneath.

The painting has the individual variation and surface characteristics associated with hand-applied decoration rather than a printed transfer. The style draws on the Russian lacquer miniature tradition, although I have not attributed this particular piece to one of the recognised Palekh, Kholuy, Mstyora or Fedoskino workshops.

There appears to be a small inscription within the painted scene, visible in the photographs, but I have been unable to identify or translate it with sufficient certainty to attribute the box to a particular artist or workshop.

Approximate size:
7 cm × 7 cm × 6 cm

Condition:
Good vintage condition with light surface wear, small marks and minor imperfections consistent with age and previous use. The painted decoration remains bright and attractive. Please study all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description.

A wonderfully decorative little piece of Russian folk art and an unusual addition to a collection of lacquer miniatures, boxes or Eastern European decorative arts.