47 - Saint John the Baptist as the "Angel of the Desert" - 19th century

Saint John the Baptist as the "Angel of the Desert" - 19th century Egg tempera on panel Height x width: 36 x 30.5 cm The title, derived from the Greek root angelos (messenger), celebrates the Baptist not merely as an ascetic, but as a divine herald sent to prepare the way for the Messiah. At the center of the sacred space, the saint appears in a half-length figure, distinguished by long, flowing hair and his characteristic camel-hair garment, partially draped with a finely folded green himation. In his left hand, he holds a liturgical chalice (poteiron) containing the Christ-Emmanuel as a child; depicted naked, this serves as an explicit reference to the mystery of the Incarnation and a prefiguration of the Eucharistic sacrifice of the Lamb of God. Beneath the chalice unfolds a scroll bearing the opening words of his preaching in the wilderness. The composition is framed by an elaborate, interwoven geometric border in a Neo-Byzantine style. In the side margins (kovčeg)—a feature common in icons commissioned by Russian families—are two standing intercessory saints: an ascetic monk on the left and a female martyr (or the Virgin in prayer, dressed in monastic attire) on the right, both serving to invoke divine protection upon the faithful. The most notable formal element is the background, which is entirely decorated with a punched pattern over gold leaf, creating a refined, damask-like geometric motif. This technique, highly favored in 19th-century Russian workshops, is designed to catch and refract natural light, transforming the metallic surface into a mirror of divine splendor. The piece is in excellent condition, retaining the vibrant intensity of its original pigments and an elegant patina acquired over time. A lot of undoubted interest for collectors of icons and Eastern sacred art. 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. Some losses.