**First Time At Auction**

Eastern Europe, Russia, ca. late 18th century CE. Skillfully painted with egg tempera and silver on gesso, a beautiful wood icon panel from an iconostasis depicting, from top to bottom, the apostle Paul holding a scroll, another saint holding the holy scripture, a group of 3 saints, the Transfiguration of Christ, and Saint John the Forerunner - also known as John the Baptist. An iconostasis is a wall of icons arranged in tiers according to strict theological and iconographical guidelines that traditionally separates the sanctuary and the nave of a church, symbolizing a visual synthesis of Orthodox Christians' spirituality and faith. It is meant to be read both horizontally and vertically. The inclusion of Saint John the Baptist indicates that this piece was likely next to the central panel of Christ. Size: 3.4" L x 20.6" H (8.6 cm x 52.3 cm)

Icons were some of the first religious artworks brought to Russia from Byzantium. These sacred pictures 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.

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 Superior, Colorado, USA collection

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#107407

Part of a larger, multipaneled iconostasis. Chipping to left periphery and some minor losses to pigments with some minor touching up in areas. A few light nicks and abrasions to surface, as well as old inactive insect holes on verso commensurate with age. Otherwise, intact and excellent with nice remaining pigments and silvering. Red pigment contains low levels of mercury - common for red pigments of the 18th century.