Frog Princess Throne Lacquer Box

I love the concept of this box!  The delightful Russian story of the Frog Princess is so nicely captured by putting the frog on her throne.  This lacquer box from Palekh is actually a combination of two boxes.  The small box (1.25 " x .75") represents a round pillow upon which sits the Frog Princess (painted on the lid of this dainty pillow box).  This small box then rests in a special indentation in the marvelously painted throne.  The inside of the high back of the throne is painted with one scene from the story (the three princes prepare to launch their arrows), while the back of the throne has yet another lovely illustration (Prince Ivan retrieves his arrow from the swamp and find the frog he must marry).  The throne is actually a box, as the foot of it serves as a sliding drawer with hidden compartment.  Sadly, there is a subtle crack in the lacquer in this otherwise enchanting box.  The inch-long crack zig-zags across the lower portion of the illustration on the front of the throne, and can be seen if you zoom in on the photograph.  Due to this crack, which does not detract from the box to the casual observer, we've discounted the price significantly.  Add this Frog Princess box to your collection, and no one will ever know the difference if you don't show them.  The throne measures 2.75" x 5" x 1.5".  Signed and titled by the artist.