Eastern Europe, Russia, ca. 19th century CE. A very large icon delineated in egg tempera, gold leaf, gesso, and varnish on linen on wood - depicting a central scene of the Crucifixion of Christ with the Holy Spirit in the form of a dove followed by God the Father at the upper end of the Cross and two mourning saints to the left and right of the cross. Four additional scenes occupy the quadrants of the composition in the negative space left by the Cross - including (from upper left in a clockwise direction) the Mother of God, the Adoration of the Magi venerating the birth of Christ, Archangel Michael flanked by Mary and Joseph, and Simeon holding the Christ Child flanked by Anne and Mary. Size: 22" W x 27.75" H (55.9 cm x 70.5 cm)

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. 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." This example is not exception. In addition to being a spiritual work of veneration, it is a mesmerizing work of art .

Provenance: ex-Francis & Lilly Robicsek collection, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA

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#119602

Expected surface wear with scuffs and losses commensurate with age. Age cracks and losses to wood at peripheries as shown. One of the three wood panels that comprise this icon appears to have been reattached. Inactive insect holes on verso. Missing back slats. Wired for suspension