Eastern Europe, Russia, ca. 18th century CE. The Virgin of the Sweet Kiss is a subject that derives from a prototype believed to have been painted by Saint Luke at Ephesus, and also regarded as the first icon depicting the Virgin Mary that Prince Vladimir brought to Kiev in 988 CE. The icon is fitted with a stunning silvered brass oklad, adding a sculptural aspect to the robes and halos of the Virgin and Child, in addition to providing a breathtaking floral and lattice border - the haloes elaborately cut, engraved, and detailed in repousse, their cloaks seemingly of billowing fabrics with cascading folds, the Virgin's detailed with a floral pattern and bordered with stylized geometric motifs and fringe over the arm. The margin of the frame is further adorned in chaise and repousse with finely executed floral and lattice elements. Size: 12.25" L x 10.5" W (31.1 cm x 26.7 cm)

Characteristic of a Mother of God icon, this piece presents the intensely expressive visages of Mary and baby Jesus, their pristine oval faces juxtaposed closely as the Child presses his cheek against his mother’s, the Virgin’s protective, maternal gaze revealing a bittersweet awareness of her son’s fate, returned by Jesus’ sweet, trusting innocence. Their playful hand gestures complements the emotional aspect of this composition.

The oklad (also spelled oclad) or riza, sometimes referred to as a revetment in English, is a metal cover that not only protects the icon, but also serves to honor or venerate the figure(s) depicted on the icon. Oklads are usually adorned with repousse work and pierced to reveal elements of the underlying painting - as we see in this example.

Provenance: private Ventura County, California, USA collection

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 to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#122499

Painting has darkened with age and shows areas of wear and loss, as well as nice areas of craquelure. Oklad is no longer attached but could easily be secured as perforations remain around its border; it also shows expected wear, tarnish, areas of bending and loss. Wood panel has weathered with age and shows areas of loss. Back slats intact. Wired for suspension.