Show all images on one page	#002266 Title: Troika Artist: Shutov Size: 6x6x4 Size (inches): 2.25x2.25x1.5 Price : $395 SOLD!

This box showing winter troika was painted by Kholui artist Shutov V.V.
This theme is traditional for Russian lacquer miniature art and very popular among modern artists. The driver stands in the sleigh and shouts encouragement to his steeds, while the loving couple behind his back watches the beautiful winter landscape and talks. In the background the artist paints the small village and several cathedrals rising over it.
Blue and green tones dominate this scene. Gold paints are used to detail the sledge, the steeds' harness and some other elements. Everything in the picture is in the motion. Fantastically beautiful, multi-colored, fairy horses with slender legs and swan-like necks are flying; their undulating tails and luxuriant manes are streaming in the wind; the flakes of snow are whirling and curling everywhere.
The lid of the box is constructed out of paper-mache, while the body of the box is made out of German silver. Intricate metal patterns decorate the sides of the box. The interior of the box, and its exterior bottom are covered with dark blue velvety material. The lid is hinged; the box can be locked by means of a special metal loop. The box rests on three metal legs. The work is signed with the artist's name, the village of Kholui and the title ("Troika").