Ms. Leonova's original artwork is executed in oil paints in multi-layer techniques, with a layer of lacquer between each layer of painting. She also has created wonderful shades of color in the background, making this brooch/pendant compatible with a variety of colors.

The brooch was painted this spring (March 2007). The miniature details and expression in the horse’s expression and movements are amazing, and this is an unusual brooch in that it depicts the entire horse. Ms. Leonova is one of the finest artists of horses in the world. The mother-of-pearl is the highest quality, so its depth adds much interest to the painting as it is turned in various lights. It reflects green and blue colors, making it compatible with many color choices! (When it is not being worn, it may be displayed on an acrylic stand; if desired, please let me know. They are only $1.50, and they make it possible to display the brooch as a miniature work of art!)

The brooch is 1 1/2 inches tall and 1 1/2 inches wide. It is signed on the back. The sterling silver pendant converter is suitable for chains and collars up to 2.7 mm in diameter.

Many of Ms. Leonova's lacquer boxes are in the collection of the Fedoskino Factory Museum in Fedoskino, Russia, and the Arts and Crafts Museum in Moscow. (I was able to see this collection on my recent tour of the factory!) Ms. Leonova is a graduate of the Fedoskino School of Miniature Art and has been the art director at the Fedoskino Factory. She took me on a tour of the factory recently and introduced me to several artists and artisans; it was a very memorable and fascinating day. (When we entered the room where artists were working, one happened to be painting a copy of Natalia’s famous work, ‘Snowstorm.’ As we watched them work, Natalia gave the artists creative ideas to enhance the boxes which they were painting.)

Ms. Leonova has created boxes for many heads of state. These have included state gifts such as her masterpiece “Troikas,” which was presented to President Reagan by Mikhael Gorbachev on his first U.S. visit. When President and Mrs. Reagan visited Moscow, they were given a decorative lacquer chest created by Natalia. Her boxes, panels and chests have been presented as diplomatic gifts from Soviet and Russian government delegations to the heads of state of Canada, Japan, France, Italy, Sweden, Cuba, the UK, Germany and several others. In 1999, Natalia personally presented her "Winter Troika" chest to Cannes Mayor Maurice Delauney during the Festival of Russian Culture.

Natalia Leonova's work is truly collectible and destined to become a family heirloom. Her work is in the private art collections of top-rate collectors in Russia and abroad. My mother and I both wear Natalia's brooches regularly (as pendants), and people ask us constantly about them, as they are fascinated with the quality of her work.

About the seller: I have lived in St. Petersburg, Russia, for 14 years, where I work in leadership development of college students. For the last three years, I have been developing my business, Hansa Traders, through which I sell quality Russian handpainted and handcrafted items. I am enthralled with the Russians' ability to create gorgeous works of art in miniature.

I have worked directly with Ms. Leonova, and other artists from Fedoskino, for three years.

For more information, buyers can view my 'About Me' page by clicking on the 'me' icon near my feedback number.

Customer satisfaction is guaranteed, and shipment will be prompt!