10 - Composite Russian icon depicting "Major Feasts, the Lives of Saint George and Saint John, and a host of selected saints" - Early 20th century

Composite Russian icon depicting "Major Feasts, the Lives of Saint George and Saint John, and a host of selected saints" - Early 20th century Egg tempera on panel Height x width: 87 x 47.5 cm Typical of the refined Russian tradition of miniature painting. The work is structured around a central narrative grid, framed by figures of saints along the side and upper borders. The uppermost register features a dense array of Apostles and patriarchs in prayer, holding unfurled scrolls that symbolize the continuity of divine revelation. The central section is organized into three tiers, containing six primary panels dedicated to significant events from the New Testament and Orthodox hagiography: in the upper left, the Presentation at the Temple (Sretenie) is depicted, while to its right lie the profound mysteries of the Nativity and the Descent into Hell. In the middle left, the miracle of Saint George—shown on horseback defeating the dragon before the city walls—is rendered with great intensity; the corresponding panel on the right captures the solemn, mystical scene of the Transfiguration on Mount Tabor. The lower-left panel features a masterful depiction of Christ’s Entry into Jerusalem, riding a donkey, while the final panel on the right shows the Evangelist John in quiet meditation, receiving divine inspiration from an angel. The bottom register of the icon presents two groups of intercessory saints and Church Fathers, depicted in hieratic, frontal poses. Along the two broad side borders (polja), arranged in three vertical tiers within dedicated niches, are full-length figures of patron saints, martyrs, and hermits—including various ascetics and penitents—selected by the work’s original patron to safeguard their family circle. The entire painted surface displays extraordinary calligraphic skill—evident in the Muscovite-style architectural details in the background, the dramatic drapery accented with fine golden highlights, and the delicate rendering of the faces—all enhanced by a gold ground and warm brown and ochre tones that lend the work an intense sense of the sacred and a timeless quality. H.E. Most Rev. Francisco-Javier Lozano Sebastián, Titular Archbishop of Penafiel and Apostolic Nuncio Emeritus. Item condition rating: **** good. The lot is in good condition, with normal wear and defects commensurate with its age and use over time. Previous restorations.