It is not often that we get in miniatures from Russell Sanchez.  He is well known for the distinctive pottery and not only the polishing and shapes but the firing. While this box is small, it is complicated!  It has black and sienna medallions on two of the ends, which are inset with very old Morenci turquoise.  The longer sides are etched with rain designs and inset with small pieces of hemitite. The hemitite reflects much the same coloration as the gunmetal fired surface.  The lid has a carved handle and it is also fully polished.  The style of this box is similar to the earlier ones made at San Ildefonso in the 1920’s.    For such a small piece, it is wonderfully intricate in design!  The box and lid are both signed on the bottom.