Eastern Europe, Russia, ca. 19th century CE. Finely painted in egg tempera and gold leaf on gesso atop wood, a stunning depiction of Mary offering the waters of salvation. At a location now known as Baliki near the Selimbria Gates of Constantinople stands the Sanctuary of the Source. According to tradition, the Mother of God, in a vision, declared that its waters were miraculous, and so, the ailing gathered around the basin. In this traditional composition, the faithful who flocked to the waters praise the Virgin as an unceasing source of life and health The Virgin and Child occupy a large golden goblet, a strong allusion to the eucharistic chalice, its waters flowing into the basin below. The archangels Michael and Gabriel flank the holy pair, gracefully floating above a rolling hillside. Partaking of the waters below are the emperor, patriarch, the sick, and the poor. Size: 12.4" W x 13.9" H (31.5 cm x 35.3 cm)

Before the fountain, a Thessalian is miraculously brought back to life when the waters are poured over his head, and a man is freed from his demons by the waters as well. The figures occupying the borders are most likely bishops, monks, and/or donors. This theme celebrating the fountain of life and the waters of salvation that makes all infirmities disappear and can even overcome death first appeared in Russia in 1654, introduced by the Greeks. Furthermore, Nicephorus Callistus wrote a church service about the Life-Giving Source.

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

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.

Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#167315

Missing 1 back slat and other is loose. A few stable surface fissures, commensurate with age. Possible repainting to areas. Otherwise, excellent.