108 - Saint Antipas of Pergamon (Svjaščennomučenik Antipa) - Early 20th century

Saint Antipas of Pergamon (Svjaščennomučenik Antipa) - Early 20th century Egg tempera on panel Height x width: 31 x 26 cm A bishop and martyr of early Christianity, he is especially invoked in the Russian tradition as a miracle-worker and healer of physical ailments (particularly toothaches). The holy hierarch is depicted frontally in a hieratic pose, explicitly identified by the monumental calligraphic inscription flanking his head (“СТЫЙ ОНТИПIЙ” — Saint Antipas). He wears solemn episcopal vestments, consisting of a broad, dark omophorion adorned with large Greek crosses outlined in gold, and a liturgical robe in deep shades of red and brown. In his left hand, he holds an open Gospel book, its pages inscribed with finely illuminated text in Old Church Slavonic, while his right hand is raised in an intimate gesture of blessing and intercessory prayer. The martyr’s gaze—stern and penetrating—conveys the ascetic steadfastness characteristic of the Eastern iconographic tradition. The composition is enriched by a small, circular, medallion-like clipeus to the saint’s right, depicting Jesus Christ the Savior, as well as three detailed panels along the side margins (kovčeg) containing full-length figures of patron saints and protectors associated with those who commissioned the work: on the left, one can discern a Guardian Angel (Angel Chranitel') at the top and a Holy Warrior-Martyr below, while on the right stands the figure of a female Holy Martyr. In terms of ornamentation and materiality, the piece is distinguished by its extraordinary, opulent gold background, featuring motifs that emulate the precious metal riza (icon covers) of the period. The painting style masterfully blends the austerity of the ancient canon with the refined naturalism in the faces and dark skin tones typical of the finest late 19th-century workshops. 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.