Eastern Europe, Russia, ca. 19th century CE. A breathtaking festal icon in egg tempera, gold and silver leaf, and gesso on wood featuring the Resurrection, the "feast of feasts" celebrated not only on Easter but every Sunday, as the primary theme. The center image shows two main scenes from the life of Christ and several smaller scenes from His life. The first and highest is His Resurrection, where he stands centrally atop his tomb. In the lower left corner is the red, monstrous head of Satan/the Hell Mouth, opened as Christ, again located in the center, leads the Harrowing of Hell, freeing the souls trapped there. The main image is surrounded by 12 smaller Biblical scenes from the life of Christ and the virgin Mary. A lovely border of 4 witnesses and geometric motif is featured on the periphery of the piece. Black painted inscriptions identify the scenes and people. Size: 10.5" W x 12.25" H (26.7 cm x 31.1 cm)
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 Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota, USA collection
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#164716
Condition
Metal loop on verso for suspension. Some very light loss to gilding in upper left corner. Otherwise, excellent with impressive remaining pigments and gilding.