Hand-Painted Russian Lacquer Box Ivan Tsarevich and the Firebird | Signed Kholuy

Russian Hand-Painted Lacquer Box Depicting Ivan Tsarevich and the Firebird

This beautifully crafted Russian lacquer box depicts the legendary scene of Ivan Tsarevich capturing the Firebird, one of the most celebrated tales in Russian folklore. The artwork is a classic example of Kholuy miniature painting, featuring vibrant enamels on a black lacquered background with exquisite gold scroll borders at each corner. The design shows Ivan in his brilliant blue and gold robes reaching toward the radiant Firebird, its plumage ablaze in vivid red and orange tones, all set against a speckled, night-like field.

The box is artist-signed and marked “п. Холуй” (p. Kholuy), identifying it as the work of the Kholuy lacquer art village, one of Russia’s four traditional centers for miniature lacquer painting, alongside Palekh, Mstera, and Fedoskino. The interior is finished in a lustrous red lacquer, and the hinge operates smoothly.

• Origin: Russia, Kholuy School of Lacquer Miniature Art

• Subject: “Ivan Tsarevich and the Firebird” (from the Russian folktale)

• Material: Papier-mâché with hand-painted tempera and gilt details

• Interior: Bright red lacquer finish

• Signature: Artist-signed in Cyrillic; marked “п. Холуй”

• Dimensions: 4.00 x 4.00 x 1.25 inches

• Weight: 6 oz

• Technique: Traditional egg tempera and gold leaf under lacquer

About the Story:
The tale of Ivan Tsarevich and the Firebird is one of Russia’s most beloved folk legends, inspiring countless works of art, including the famous Firebird Ballet by Igor Stravinsky (1910). The story tells of the brave prince Ivan who captures the magical Firebird—a symbol of beauty, power, and enlightenment—but must endure great challenges to earn its aid and the reward of love and wisdom. Russian lacquer painters, especially those from Kholuy, often illustrated this story for its rich symbolism and vivid imagery.

Condition: Excellent vintage condition with light surface wear consistent with age. Lacquer remains glossy, and colors are rich and well preserved. No cracks or losses. The interior and hinge are clean and fully functional.

This piece was acquired from a collector's estate sale in Chester County, Pennsylvania.

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