Eastern Europe, Russia, ca. 19th century CE. A striking icon presenting an ensemble of 5 blessed saints below a scene of 3 angels dining at a table in egg tempera on wood. Although there are traces of inscriptions, they are somewhat difficult to discern. The figure on the far left dressed in military clothing is likely Saint George of Lydda, while the remaining saints are trickier to identify as their dress is neither monastic, episcopal, nor royal. The bare feet and book of the figure on the in the center suggests that he may be an Apostle. The 3 female saints each hold a Russian cross in their right hand, suggesting that they may be saints Marina, Paraskeve, and Anastasia. The top scene shown above may be referencing chapter 18 of the Book of Genesis in which 3 angels appeared to Abraham at the Oak of Mamre. Some scholars interpret these figures to indicate the New Testament Trinity with Christ at the center, the Father to the left, and the Holy Spirit to the right. Size: 14.5" W x 15.5" H (36.8 cm x 39.4 cm)

The Eastern Orthodox Church subscribes to a belief in the intercession of saints. In the Eastern Orthodox tradition every individual is named in honor of a specific saint when baptized, and this saint is regarded as a patron for the person's entire life. In addition, there are patron saints of activities and occupations, ailments and dangers, as well as locales.

Icons were some of the first religious artworks brought to Russia from Byzantium. These sacred pictures of the Greek Orthodox church reached a high point in the Byzantine era; however, the Russians brought their own style to the art of the icon. Icons were initially created for use in churches and processions. In time they became smaller and were used increasingly within households. To this day they remain an important form of visual culture in Russia's orthodox religious community.

Provenance: private New Jersey, USA collection

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#164022

Stable surface fissure on verso. Losses to tempura on peripheries, lower right corner, and some areas of interior. Repainting to some areas. Otherwise, very nice with lovely craquelure.