Snowmaiden

This elegant piece of genuine Russian artistry was composed by well-known Mstera master Valentin Tikhomirov. The ornamentation and the exacting flow between colors and characters are always key in any piece by the artist. This exceptional work is surely no exception.
The box features multiple scenes from the story of "Snowmaiden". The lid contains one composition while the base of the piece depicts several scenes in uniform. This means that there is no break in the artistry while there are multiple elements of time which exist on the same surface, typical of the iconographic style of application.
On the lid of the piece we see the gorgeous Snowmaiden as she is introduced before the Tsar. Two separate scenes are noticed around the base of this cylindrical work. One of them features the kingdom of Tsar Berendey during winter season. Another one shows the dramatic moment of the story when the Snowmaiden starts melting under the merciless sunrays, and Mizgir trying to help her.
The dominant blues used for the background in the composition are very pleasing to the eye. The characters are depicted with vibrant reds, blues, browns and other complimentary shades, making a rainbow of appeal.
The decoration of the piece is where the artist really gets a chance to shine. Olive bands detailed with blue flowers and outlined with gold paints decorate the box's exterior.
The box is constructed from paper-mache. The paintings cover the whole body of the box, except is exterior bottom covered with black lacquer. The box's interior is traditionally red. The lid isn't hinged, and the box rests on a flat bottom. The work is signed and titled by the artist.