**Originally Listed At $800**

Eastern Europe, Russia, 19th century CE. Finely painted in egg tempera on gesso on wood, an icon of Christ Pantokrator, meaning ruler, judge of all, or lord of the universe. Christ holds a holy Gospel in his left hand, and the fingers of his right hand are curved and point upward rather than giving benediction. This is a relatively old gesture dating to the 12th century, and is less common than the hand raised in benediction usually seen in Christ Pantocrator icons. Size: 12.125" L x 9.5" W (30.8 cm x 24.1 cm)

The most accepted translation of Pantocrator is "Almighty" or "All Powerful" and the visage of Jesus certainly projects his omnipotence. This iconic depiction continues to be a central icon of the Eastern Orthodox Church. Christ gazes beyond the confines of the image, his visage finely delineated, a rendering aspiring to the naturalism sought in classical antiquity and the Renaissance, this in contrast to the large and relatively flat gilded nimbus and surrounding decorated arch and corners – resulting in a rich balance between naturalism and spiritual transfiguration.

Icons were and continue to be religious images created for veneration. As a focus for prayers and meditation for believers, icons serve as "windows into heaven."

Provenance: private New Jersey, USA collection

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#161915

Nicks/chips to peripheries and raised border of image. Some bubbled varnish on surface as shown. Perforation at top center of verso for former suspension. Back slats are present. Incised marks/inscription on verso that is difficult to discern. Inactive insect holes on verso that do not interfere with image.