The Red Horse Lacquer Brooch

The red horse, in Slavic traditions, is a symbol of the sun, fire and new life. In many instances, the horse friend is considerably better than the human friend. Here Ivan appears to be either talking to his scarlet horse, or communicating clairvoyantly with it. The magical journey is about to begin!

A larger (3¼" x 1¾") papier-mache brooch. Marked Palekh (which it is not) and Smolov as the artist. No date. Some characteristics of Palekh painting, but most likely a Kholui or Mstera artist masquerading as one. Still nice painting in excellent condition. Gift boxed. Circa mid-1990's. Traditional safety pin back. 1 only. Note: "hot spot" glare in photo is not on the brooch itself.