**Originally Listed At $500**

Eastern Europe, Russia, ca. 19th century CE. Finely delineated in egg tempera and gesso on wood, an icon depicting the Archangel Michael flanked by Saints Florus and Laurus, brothers who were natives of Illyria, stonecutters by trade, and were martyred during the 2nd century for building a temple dedicated to Christ rather than pagan deities. They are oftentimes depicted in icons in the company of Nicholas, Elijah, and James, the bishop of Jerusalem and patron saint of Novgorod, due to the veneration they received in the early Christian era. The brothers were bestowed with miraculous powers to fight epidemics, and they were also protectors of domestic animals. Characteristic of this theme, in this icon the Archangel Michael entrusts a herd of horses to the care of Florus and Laurus. Size: 12" L x 10.5" W (30.5 cm x 26.7 cm)

Icons (icon means "image" in Greek) are sacred objects within the Eastern Orthodox Christian tradition. Found in homes as well as churches, these painted images depict holy persons and saints as well as illustrate scenes from the Scriptures. Icons are not worshiped, but are instead venerated for their ability to focus the power of an individual's prayer to God. As such they are truly "windows into heaven."

Provenance: private New Jersey, USA collection

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#161914

Wear and losses to the painted icon and peripheries commensurate with age as shown, with possible areas of repainting.