Lot #65: Russian Religious Panel | Saint Holding Gospel Book | Hand-Painted Art | 18th Century

Historical Context & Origin Region: Russia (provincial workshop) Material: Tempera and gold leaf on wood panel Period: 18th Century (circa 1700s) Description This antique hand-painted Russian Orthodox icon depicts a saint in a traditional blessing pose, holding a Gospel book—a symbol of teaching and divine guidance. The figure is rendered in tempera with vibrant earth tones and highlighted with gold leaf, creating a luminous devotional image. The corners are decorated with subtle floral embellishments, while a Cyrillic inscription above the saint’s halo identifies the subject in accordance with Orthodox tradition. Likely created in a provincial workshop, this icon would have served for private devotion or as part of a small chapel setting. Features - Hand-painted tempera with original polychrome and gilt highlights - Traditional blessing pose with Gospel book - Cyrillic inscription above halo identifying the saint - Gold-leaf embellishments with floral corner motifs - Unpainted wooden back with age-related wormholes and hand-tooling marks Cultural Significance Icons of this type served as spiritual conduits in Orthodox Christianity, linking the earthly viewer to the divine presence of the saint represented. The 18th century saw widespread production of provincial icons in Russia, often created for private devotional use. The use of gold leaf symbolized divine light, while inscriptions anchored the work within Orthodox liturgical tradition. Such icons remain both sacred and historically significant, embodying centuries of religious practice and artistry. Condition Good antique condition. Stable craquelure across painted surface, minor paint losses, and wormholes consistent with age. Structurally sound, with no major restorations detected. Age (Approximate) 225–325 years old Provenance From a private collection in Thomaston, Maine, USA. Acquired by the current owner in 2025. Dimensions: Width: 9.25 in x Height: 11.5 in Pickup category timeslot {A} Price Estimate: CAD 200 - 425 Ships from Toronto, ON. No local pickup. Buyer arranges shipping and insurance directly with seller after auction closes.