Hand-Painted Russian Lacquer Boxes

Lacquer Boxes have a long and storied history through the ages. These boxes first started in Russia as a way to design icons during the age of Russian imperialism. When the Czar fell the industry morphed into one that catered to the history of the country (minus the religious aspect -- which was outlawed under Communism).

Papier-mâché boxes and the lacquering of them grew into a large industry. There were the old schools including Fedoskino, Palekh, Khouly, and Mstyora. Each school has its own unique style that is easy to identify with minimal training. Boxes from these school are very expensive but you can purchase lacquer boxes in these styles for affordable prices.