Papier-mache, oil painting, lacquer; measures 85 mm x 100 mm x 37 mm (approx. 3½" x 4" x 1½ "). The artist's signature "V. P. Rogatov" appears in the lower right corner, clearly legible. The location "(village of) Fedoskino" and a 68 date of manufacture is in the lower left, written in the same fashion and clearly by the same hand. The interior is painted red in traditional manner.

Views of the Kremlin were a favorite subject of generations of Fedoskino artists, but quality of this box is absolutely stunning - far above what we are used to seeing on Soviet lacquer boxes. Especially striking are mother-of-pearl sky and subtle dawn sunlight touching the tips of the wall. Note also the almost impressionistic reflections and shadows on the wet pavement below. The Spasskaya Clock Tower is depicted in far better detail than usual; the silvery silhouette of distant buildings on the left nicely anchors and rounds up the composition.

The box is in excellent condition. The image is essentially pristine, its original luster fully preserved. The lacquer has a couple of tiny hairlines, one in the upper right and one to the left of the tower, but they are barely noticeable even against the lighter backdrop of the sky. There is a single tiny chip to the black enamel at the right edge, also almost unnoticeable. There are no scuffs, significant cracks, discoloration spots or other serious wear.

Please note, the medal in our photo is for size reference.