Eastern Europe, Russia, ca. 19th century CE. A four-paneled traveling icon made of brass with nice remains of dark blue and white enamel in the recessed areas of the reliefs. Each panel is divided into four scenes from the Life of Christ and the Life of Mary. Above are four additional scenes in onion dome shaped panels, and the shape of the icon when closed mirrors the form of a Russian church with its onion dome. Size: 14.5" W x 6.625" H (36.8 cm x 16.8 cm) opened; 3.875" W (9.8 cm) closed

In order to support traveling priests on missions, bronze and brass religious objects were made that were small enough and light enough to be carried on long journeys through a difficult landscape. These articles were widespread in Russia by the 17th century, and are often mentioned in the writings of Pushkin and Chekhov.

Provenance: private Orange County, California, USA collection

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#127922

Expected surface wear with some losses to enamel, but much remains and the imagery is clear. There are signs of Cyrillic writing; however, they are worn and difficult to decipher. Hinges work well and imagery is fairly vivid.