91 - Protection of the Mother of God (Pokrov) - 19th century

Protection of the Mother of God (Pokrov) - 19th century Egg tempera on panel Height x width: 36 x 31 cm One of the most beloved and theologically significant feasts in the Russian Orthodox tradition is Pokrov (the Protection or Veil of the Virgin), celebrated on October 1 to commemorate a miracle that occurred in the 10th century at the Church of Blachernae in Constantinople. Iconographically, the composition is arranged in two superimposed registers within a monumental architectural framework that replicates a Byzantine basilica, featuring finely detailed domes and apses. In the upper register, the Mother of God appears floating amidst the clouds, praying for humanity and flanked by angels, apostles, prophets, and saints; she holds—or is supported by angels in holding, depending on the specific variant—a luminous veil (the omophorion), a visible symbol of divine protection and intercession. The earthly dimension of the miracle unfolds in the lower register: at the center, standing on the ambo, is the slender figure of Saint Romanos the Melodist, patron of sacred singers, holding a scroll inscribed with the Christmas hymn he composed. To his right (the viewer’s left), one can identify Emperor Leo the Wise, the Empress, and the Patriarch of Constantinople, while on the opposite side stands Saint Andrew, the “Fool for Christ” (yurodivy), who points ecstatically toward the heavenly vision so that his young disciple Epiphanius may see it. His Excellency the Most Reverend 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 paint loss.