The Old Russian village of “Mstera” is situated near the Klyazma River about 65 miles from the historic Russian city of Vladimir. Mstera style lacquer is quite different from its cousins Fedoskino & Kholui. Mstera or Mstyora miniature painting is done with tempera paints on varnished articles mostly made of papier-mâché or wood. The lacquer boxes from “Mstera” also usually have lighter colors and the painting backgrounds are never black (although the lacquer box itself is). Some of the most common backgrounds for all artwork are: light blue, red, gold or ivory. This box is considered a kidney shape and is called the "Humpy Horse" by Struning. Measures 3.75 x 2 x 3.5.