Vintage Kholuy Lacquer Miniature Heart Box Signed V Sedov Balalaika Folk Art

Beautiful vintage hand-painted lacquer miniature trinket box in an unusual heart shape, finely decorated with a traditional folk scene depicting a young woman dancing beside a musician playing a balalaika.

The miniature is particularly attractive, with finely painted facial features, clothing and foliage against the glossy black ground, surrounded by delicate gold-coloured scrollwork.

The inscription on the front includes “Холуй” (Kholuy), identifying the renowned lacquer miniature tradition, together with “Седов В.” (Sedov V.), believed to be the artist’s surname and initial.

The painted title reads “Балалаечка играет”, approximately translating as “The Little Balalaika Plays.”

The exterior is finished in glossy black lacquer, while the interior has the characteristic rich red lacquer finish.

An especially charming example due to its small heart-shaped form, colourful folk subject and signed decoration.

Dimensions

* Width: approx. 6 cm
* Height: approx. 6 cm
* Depth: approx. 2.5 cm

Condition

Very good vintage condition overall, with minor signs of age and handling consistent with a previously owned decorative piece. Please examine all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the description.

The inscriptions and artist’s details have been transcribed from the decoration itself. No additional provenance or artist documentation accompanies the box.

A lovely small collector’s piece, ideal for displaying as a lacquer miniature or using as a jewellery or keepsake box.