57 - Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker with Scenes from His Life (Zitiynaya) - 19th century

Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker with Scenes from His Life (Zitiynaya) - 19th century Egg tempera on panel Height x width: 41.5 x 32.5 cm The work is distinguished by the presence of Old Church Slavonic inscriptions commenting on the individual scenes. In the central panel, the saint is depicted in a half-length portrait wearing Orthodox episcopal vestments—including the omophorion (a white stole adorned with large crosses)—and holding an open Gospel book in his left hand, while his right hand is raised in the characteristic Orthodox gesture of blessing. Flanking the golden halo are miniature figures of Jesus Christ and the Mother of God, enclosed in medallions; they present him with the Gospel and the stole, respectively, signifying his divine legitimacy. The twelve narrative compartments arranged along the borders illustrate—in a clockwise direction starting from the top-left corner—key episodes of his life: from his birth and baptism, through his ordinations as deacon, priest, and bishop, to famous miracles such as the rescue of sailors during a storm and the saving of three innocent men from execution, culminating in the celebrated scene of the Dormition in the lower right. Stylistically, the work displays a refined blend of the rigorous Byzantine graphic tradition and Western Baroque and Neoclassical influences that permeated late 18th-century Russian painting—evident particularly in the dynamism and architectural backdrops of the side panels. The color palette relies on the contrast between the dark, almost black background and vibrant areas of cinnabar red and ochre, enhanced by delicate white highlights that define the faces and the folds of the drapery. 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. Minor color loss.