222 - ICON OF CHRIST PANTOCRATOR WITH SELECTED SAINTS. RUSSIA, 1850-1860.

ICON OF CHRIST PANTOCRATOR WITH SELECTED SAINTS. RUSSIA, 1850-1860. A Russian icon of Christ Pantocrator from the mid-19th century, executed on a substantial cypress wood panel without support battens. The central composition depicts the canonical half-length image of Christ Pantocrator with His right hand raised in blessing and an open Gospel book held in His left hand. The icon is distinguished by its high-quality icon painting, carefully conceived decorative structure and harmonious combination of the traditional Orthodox canon with the artistic characteristics of Russian icon painting of the mid-19th century. On either side of the halo are sacred inscriptions placed within elegant Baroque cartouches, while an ornamental band separates the central image from the borders of the icon. The borders depict selected saints: Saint Michael the Scribe and Saint Agnes the Martyr. The impressive dimensions and considerable thickness of the cypress panel indicate a prestigious commission and particular attention to the quality of materials and artistic execution. The decorative concept of the icon reflects the influence of the Second Baroque aesthetic: expressive contrasts between the dark outlines of the cartouches, the black and gold ornamental framing and the deep tones of Christ’s chiton create a solemn decorative effect. Subtle olive tones and a restrained colour palette give the image a particular sense of warmth and spiritual contemplation. The naturally aged surface, with its noble patina and craquelure, preserves the authentic character of the old Russian icon painting tradition. Dimensions: 40 × 34.2 × 4.4 cm. Material: Cypress wood panel, tempera, gilding. Condition: Good condition. Natural signs of age, darkening and patina of the painted surface, craquelure of the background, consistent with the period of creation and historical use of the icon. Width: 34.2cm, Height: 40cm, Depth: 4.4cm, Weight: 3.573kg, Condition: Signs of wear commensurate with age, Material: Gilding, Wood, Tempera, ID: ID-ANTQ-8437