Ruslan and Ludmila

The method of combining several scenes helps the artist to tell a complex story in one image. Some of the more tumultuous action from the story were chosen by the artist and it seems that different actions are happening at the same time. This is accomplished through the iconographic method of artistic application, which allows multiple elements of time and space to coexist on the same surface.
At the top of the composition the artist depicts the evil dwarf magician Chernomor kidnapping Ludmila. The magician has a threatening appearance. His magic beard and bright red cape are beating in the wind.To the left from Chernomor we can see Ruslan, who is outlasting his hands to Ludmila.
On the right of the composition we see Ruslan on a horse. He is going to Chernomor's palace, win a victory over the wicked magician and save his beloved Ludmila.
The artist fills the scene with lots of action and detail. The generous amount of gold and silver paint through the rest of the piece adds to this work's attraction, and gives it a very intricate look.
The box is made of paper-mache. Black lacquer is used to paint the exterior of the piece while red lacquer completes the interior of the box. The lid is hinged from the top of the composition.
The edges of the lid are adorned with nice gold beading. The sides of the box are patterned with large blooms of flowered golden filigree.
The box rests flat. The box is signed with the artist's name, village, title and year (2016).