Lot 70
Eastern Europe, Russia, ca. 1775 CE. A striking depiction of Mary offering the waters of salvation, beautifully executed in egg tempera and gold leaf. At a location now known as Baliki near the Selimbria Gates of Constantinople stands the Sanctuary of the Source. According to tradition, the Mother of God, in a vision, declared that its waters were miraculous, and so, the ailing gathered around the basin. In this traditional composition, the faithful who have flocked to the waters, praise the Virgin as a never-ending source of life and health. The Virgin and Child occupy a large golden goblet, a strong allusion to the eucharistic chalice, its waters flowing into the basin below. The archangels Gabriel and Michael flank the holy pair, floating upon billowing clouds. Partaking of the waters below are the emperor, patriarch, the sick, and the poor. A stupendous example, replete with fine painting technique, a balanced compostion, and rich iconography (see below for further discussion of the scene). Size: 17.625" L x 14.625" W (44.8 cm x 37.1 cm)
Before the fountain, a Thessalian is miraculously brought back to life when the waters are poured over his head, and a man is freed from his demons by the waters as well. The figures occupying the borders are most likely bishops, monks, and/or donors. This theme celebrating the fountain of life and the waters of salvation that makes all infirmities disappear and can even overcome death first appeared in Russia in 1654, introduced by the Greeks. Furthermore, Nicephorus Callistus wrote a church service about the Life-Giving Source.
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."
Provenance: private Santa Fe, New Mexico USA collection
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#124418
- Condition: Either originally comprised of two wood panels that separated at one time or repaired from two pieces with some added paint/gilding over fissure. Normal surface wear with slight losses to pigment/gilding commensurate with age, but imagery is still quite vivid. On verso, back slats remain, age cracks visible, and expected wear.
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