Lot 71A
Eastern Europe, Russia, ca. 18th century CE. Finely executed in gesso, gold leaf, and faux enamel on limewood, a large and delicately shaped icon depicting the Transfiguration. In the scene, the disciples Peter, James, and John, atop Mount Tabor, display a state of shock and ecstasy having seen the deified body of Christ standing upon a billowing cloud between the two seers of the Old Testament, Moses and Elijah. Adding to this meaningful iconography is the exceptional artistry and workmanship displayed; the finely delineated figures are set against stunning gold strapwork ground and surrounded by painstakingly created enamelwork in royal blue, pink, aqua, green, and white hues. A breathtaking example of this religious art form, replete with the utmost artistry, technique, and spiritual symbolism. Size: 20" L x 25" W (50.8 cm x 63.5 cm)
Tabor of Galilee is regarded as the most holy site since ancient times. At the summit of Mount Tabor, beneath the flooring of the present-day Church of the Transfiguration is a rock that still shows traces of Canaanite cults. Worshippers believe that on Tabor one may witness God and his revelation. Scholar Alfredo Tradigo quotes the Old Testament to provide further context: "his face shone like the sun, and his garments became white as light." At this point the disciples "fell on their faces, "struck by the rays of "uncreated" light, which shone from the luminous aura enveloping the body of Christ." Tradigo writes, "According to tradition, every monk-painter is supposed to paint this icon at the start of his apprenticeship, so that he could paint his subsequent works in the light of Mount Tabor." (Tradigo, Icons and Saints of the Eastern Orthodox church, p. 125)
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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#124417
- Condition: A crack down center right as shown. Surface wear with losses to gold leaf and pigment. Chips to peripheries. Verso shows intact back strap.
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