Lot 194A
Russia, ca. 19th century CE (possibly earlier). A stunning antique Russian icon, finely painted with traditional techniques in egg tempera, gold leaf, and gesso. The central figures of the composition are Saint John the Baptist reaching out to Jesus Christ who stands in the river while three angels with veiled hands lean towards him. Descending from heaven and soaring above the scene is the dove of the Holy Spirit radiating the light of the Trinity with God the Father sending blessings from the celestial realm. All the figures' visages are framed with gold-leaf haloes and the beautiful scene is in turn framed by the gold-leaf border. The painting technique demonstrates the utmost skill. Note how the draperies cascade over the figures' forms not to mention the exquisite modeling of the facial features and hands. The style of this composition reveals Byzantine influences. For instance, while some atmospheric perspective is discernible and the figures' faces and hands reveal some three dimensionality, the figures' bodies are relatively flat and seem to almost float before the scene, quite similar to those depicted in Byzantine mosaics. In addition the figures are divided into separate groups so as to make the narrative clear and easily "legible" - another telltale sign of Byzantine influence. A beautiful example of religious art. Size: 10.125" W x 14" H (25.7 cm x 35.6 cm)
Provenance: Ex - Private California collection
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#115558
- Condition: Minor loss on upper left side. Slats missing from back.
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| $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 |
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| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $25,000 |