Eastern Europe, Russia, ca. 1859. A very special icon finely painted in egg tempera on wood and embellished with a 92% silver oklad, depicting three standing saints (perhaps the more unusual manifestation of the Holy Trinity with three figures of human form standing side by side) who are enveloped by the rays of the All Seeing Eye of God (also Eye of Providence) inscribed in a triangle (the triangle representing the Holy Trinity) above - signifying that the Almighty is keeping a watchful eye over his creation. The rays occupy a silhouette of an abstract dove and are flanked by twin columns. The figure's robes, attributes, and halos are also skillfully delineated with wonderful chased details on the magnificent oklad as shown. Silver quality: 92% Size: 4.375" W x 5.5" H (11.1 cm x 14 cm)

The oklad (also spelled oclad) or riza, sometimes referred to as a revetment in English, is a metal cover that not only protects the icon, but also serves to honor or venerate the figure(s) depicted on the icon. Oklads are usually adorned with skillfully cut, engraved, and/or repousse work and pierced to reveal elements of the underlying painting as we see in this example.

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 a focus for prayers and meditation for believers, icons serve as "windows into heaven."

Hallmarks on the lower border of the oklad include a makers mark (backwards N A), the date 1859, an image of St. George slaying the dragon to represent Moscow, and 84 to signify sterling silver.

Provenance: ex Estate of Dr. W.M. Bogdanowicz, Naples, Florida USA

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#160756

Oklad is removable from icon and has hallmarks on the lower border. Very slight bending to form and peripheries of oklad. Icon has minor staining, normal surface wear commensurate with age, a few losses to peripheries, and fading to areas of pigmentation, otherwise very good. Great preservation to figural details beneath oklad and great luster to oklad surfaces. Collection label on verso. Wired for suspension.