Eastern Europe, Russia, ca. 19th century CE. A breathtaking icon delineated in egg tempera, gold leaf, gesso, and varnish on linen and wood depicting the Virgin Mary floating upon a billowy cloud of the heavenly celestial realm wearing flowing robes of azure blue and rose pink with her arms held outward in an orans or orant (from orare meaning to pray) gesture, her tranquil visage framed by a radiating golden halo. The land below represents the terrain of farmers with neatly tied bunches of wheat, golden fields beyond, and fresh green growth demonstrating the healthy crop that will arise thanks to Mary's prayers. The gold leaf border is meticulously incised with a leafy floral pattern, underscoring the fruitfulness provided by the Virgin. Its arched upper border elegantly echoes the curve of her halo. Size: 13.25" L x 10.375" W (33.7 cm x 26.4 cm), custom stand not included.

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. The artist of this example elected to create an intricate gilded border to honor the religious iconography it surrounds. 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 Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA collection

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#124553

A few chips to lower edge and corners. Expected surface wear with minor scuffs/losses and craquelure commensurate with age.