Russia, ca. mid-19th century CE. Russian Orthodox hand painted icon depicting Saint Tryphon, hand painted in egg tempera and gesso on wood panel with a repousse and chased brass cover (riza or oklad). The oklad, which literally means trimming, is struck with old Cyrillic lettering identifying each figure. The painted visages on the wood panel beneath demonstrate great skill and artistry. Tryphon was an impoverished goose herder of Phrygia in Asia Minor. Here we see three geese depicted in the waters below Tryphon's horse. According to legend, Roman soldiers sought out Tryphon and took him back to Rome, because the daughter of Emperor Gordianus was gravely ill and had asked for Tryphon. For several days, he prayed and fasted until the lovely princess was cured. Afterwards,Tryphon returned home with a plethora of gifts that he gave to the poor. He became a hero and inspired many to convert to Christianity. In 250 CE, Tryphon was martyred in Nicea in persecutions during the reign of Decius. When he was on trial, Tryphon prayed that people in dire need would mention his name and subsequently be helped. After he was beheaded, Tryphon's cult spread throughout the Orthodox Church and maintained a loyal following. In Moscow, for instance, some thousand years later, a church was dedicated to him. In this church, imagery presents Tryphon with a falcon, because he apparently saved the lives of a group of falconers from Ivan the Terrible at one time. A number of prayers mention Tryphon's name - during the Blessing of the Water, prayers for those stricken with illness, and in prayers to ward off natural disasters. St. Tryphon is also considered by many farmers to be the protector of fields. A fine piece with strong painting depicting this legendary saint and an attractive ornamental oklad. Size: 8.75" L x 7" W (22.2 cm x 17.8 cm)

Provenance: Ex- Estate of M. Reiniger, Chicago, IL

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.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#111475

Painted faces still quite vivid. Oklad shows some minor bending and perforations. Nice patina.