Lot 45
**Originally Listed At $750**
Byzantine Empire, ca. 10th to 12th century CE. A near-miniature, tombstone-shaped, solid-cast bronze icon with a bas-relief image of St. Nicholas, The Wonderworker, holding the Gospel in his left hand and pointing to his chin with his right, with a cross on the verso. Notice the remarkable technique of this piece, in particular the elegant delineations of St. Nicholas's wavy hair and the folds of his cascading robe. A beautiful and technically impressive personal devotional object, a wonderful and rare example. Size: 1.75" W x 2.125" H (4.4 cm x 5.4 cm)
Saint Nicholas, who is also known as Nikolaos of Myra, was a 4th century Christian saint as well as a Greek Bishop of Myra in Asia Minor (Demre, Turkey today). He is also known as Nikolaos the Wonderworker, due to the countless miracles attributed to him. Whats more his penchant for secretive gift gave rise to t he concept of Santa Claus via Sinterklaas. Indeed, the true story of Santa Claus begins with this Nicholas, who was born during the 3rd century in the small village of Patara. At that time, this region was Greek; it is now on the southern coast of Turkey. He was born to wealthy parents who raised him to be a devout Christian. Unfortunately, they died in an epidemic when Nicholas was young. Nicholas, obeying Jesus' instructions to sell one's possessions and give the money to the poor, used his entire inheritance to assist the needy, ill, and suffering. Dedicating his life to serving God, Nicholas was named Bishop of Myra while still a young man. Bishop Nicholas became known for his generosity to all in need, his concern for sailors, and his love for children.
Provenance: Ex-Private LA County collection
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#117665
- Condition: Nice patina. Some surface wear, though minor, commensurate with age. Overall excellent.
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| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,000 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $25,000 |