Authentic hand-drawn miniature Orthodox icon paintings on lacquer boxes are
created by the talented artists from the Russian village Palekh, a famous
center of lacquer miniature paintings on papier-mache. Icons are created as an
expression of amazement by the mightiness of Jesus’ glory. Proving the presence
and power of the Divine in our lives, icons express feelings of calm joy and
tenderness from which comes the belief that icons are dwelling places of God's
grace. Honorable features of the saints represent devotion to defend the true
faith and the strength of their virtues: humility, perseverance, patience,
courage, and love for the Lord. Great miracle of Christ’s birth presented to
the viewer in Nativity icons is depicted with grace and clarity mostly
appropriate for this event of great spiritual power.
Divine light of Christ and the inner light of sacred figures brighten the
scene. Look into Holy Virgin’s eyes, and you will see the great strength of
spirit, great faith in God's mercy, and great hope for salvation. The sacred
icons became renowned for miraculous powers, healing many who were ill.
Expressing heavenly tranquility and reverence toward God, icons create a
powerful sense of the presence of God as we are seeking mercy from the
Almighty.
Note that the elegant artwork is created with skillful attention to detail,
elevating this item from a work of craft to a work of art. Artists use
high-magnification glasses and squirrel hair brushes with needlepoint tips to
paint these highly detailed pictures. Creating these lacquer boxes is a very
delicate skill passed down through many generations. Each work is a
distinctive, intricately hand-drawn miniature painting that is unique to each
artist. No two drawings are alike, and each artist signs their work upon
completion. The box itself is made of papier-mache, a material that can
withstand changes in atmospheric conditions and avoid crackling, allowing you
to enjoy this exquisite masterwork for a lifetime.