Eastern Europe, Russia, ca. 1875 CE. A gorgeous Russian icon finely painted in egg tempera, gold leaf, gesso, and faux enamel on linen and wood depicting the Theophany based upon the gospel narrative of the Baptism of Christ by John the Baptist at the Jordan River. Just as Jesus was heading toward the river, the Holy Spirit descended upon him in the form of a dove, seen above with rays of the Trinity light radiating down over Christ. A voice stated, "This is my beloved Son with whom I am well pleased." Immediately three personages of the Holy Trinity later called the Theophany appeared. A naked Jesus stands in the waters of the Jordan River. To his left we see John the Baptist facing Jesus and touching his head. On the right bank are a trio of angels witnessing the sacred scene. An outstanding depiction with a skillfully delineated gold leaf and faux enamel border of burgundy, pink, green, sky blue, and navy blue hues. Size: 12.25" L x 10.375" W (31.1 cm x 26.4 cm)

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

Provenance: private Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA collection

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#124563

Normal surface wear and loss with touch up over some pigment losses. Areas of craquelure. Some fissures and wear to border. Suspension wire on verso.