18 - Russian icon with multiple panels depicting the Descent into Hell, the Transfiguration, the Intercession of the Theotokos, and intercessory saints—Late 18th century

Russian icon with multiple panels depicting the Descent into Hell, the Transfiguration, the Intercession of the Theotokos, and intercessory saints—Late 18th century Egg tempera on panel and gold leaf Height x width: 68 x 54 cm An exceptional example of a multi-scene devotional panel, designed to condense the major liturgical feasts of the Orthodox tradition—along with a host of patron saints—into a single pictorial space. The surface of the panel is divided into clearly defined narrative compartments. In the upper-left register unfolds the solemn iconography of the Anastasis, or the Descent into Hell: Christ the Savior, set within a radiant mandorla of golden light, shatters the gates of Hades and grasps the hands of the first parents, Adam and Eve, to draw them forth from their tombs, surrounded by throngs of kings, prophets, and the righteous. The upper-right quadrant features the spectacular composition of the Transfiguration of the Lord on Mount Tabor: Christ stands, ablaze with light, within a circular mandorla resting upon a multi-pointed star, flanked by the prophets Moses and Elijah; below, the three apostles—Peter, James, and John—lie prostrate on the ground, blinded by the dazzling theophanic vision. At the center of the lower register lies the dense and detailed scene of the Pokrov, or the Protection of the Mother of God, set within the Church of Blachernae in Constantinople; the Virgin appears in prayer atop the clouds, extending her protective veil, while below—before the Royal Doors—stands the deacon Saint Romanos the Melodist, accompanied by Saint Andrew the Fool-for-Christ and his disciple Epiphanius. The left and right vertical margins, along with the lower perimeter sections, are entirely occupied by six smaller, subsidiary compartments—executed with exceptional, miniature-like refinement—that feature full-length patron saints chosen by the commissioning family. On the left, one can identify a Guardian Angel bearing a cross, accompanied by an ascetic monk-saint in the upper register, while the lower register features two high-ranking saints (hierarchs) in dark liturgical vestments. On the right, the upper section depicts a crowned female martyr and a warrior-saint, followed below by two ascetic nuns in prayer. Each figure is precisely identified by calligraphic labels in ochre and orange-red, inscribed in Old Church Slavonic. Stylistically, the work exemplifies devotional painting of the highest order; this is evident in the master miniaturist’s extraordinary ability to render dozens of tiny figures, employing a clean application of color rich in highlights and vivid fields—notably cinnabar reds, brilliant greens, and dark robes—all further enhanced by halos crafted entirely in polished gold leaf. 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 minor restorations.