**Originally Listed At $400**

Eastern Europe, Russia, ca. 19th century CE. A beautiful miniature two-sided, folding traveling icon comprised of silver with enamel detailing in cobalt blue, sky blue, yellow, and green hues - depicting three angels (the Hospitality of Abraham) on the left and the Virgin Orans on the right - and with hallmarks atop the Hospitality of Abraham (84 for sterling silver and initials "MN"). When closed, the cover depicts the Orthodox cross, with two cross bars at the top and a slanted cross bar at the bottom. On the left and right of the cross bar are the letters "IC" and "XC" respectively, the abbreviation for Christ. Below the Cross is Golgotha with the skull symbolizing Adam. Additional Cyrillic inscriptions surround the scene. In order to support traveling priests on missions, precious religious objects were made that were small enough and light enough to be carried on long journeys. Size: 2.75" W x 1.25" H (7 cm x 3.2 cm) open; 1.3" W x 1.25" H (3.3 cm x 3.2 cm) closed; weight: 43.2 grams; silver quality: 95%.

The left panel of this icon references the Old Testament Trinity referencing chapter 18 of the Book of Genesis in which three angels appeared to Abraham at the Oak of Mamre. Here we see the trio of winged angels seated. Oftentimes Abraham and his wife Sarah are depicted with the visitors. Due to the generosity directed toward the three visitors, this scene is also known as the 'Hospitality of Abraham' and some scholars have interpreted the figures as prefiguring the New Testament Trinity. On the right is the Virgin Orans (also Orant from the verb orare meaning to pray) depicting the Virgin and Child with Mary making a prayerful gesture.

Provenance: private Dunn collection, Coral Springs, Florida, USA, acquired in the 1990s

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#151510

There are hallmarks stamped atop the Hospitality of Abraham (84 for sterling silver and initials "MN"). Some age wear but the enameled relief details are still strong. Silver has developed a lovely age patina.