112 - A Russian icon depicting Christ Pantocrator—19th century

A Russian icon depicting Christ Pantocrator—19th century Tempera on panel Height x width: 47 x 38 cm. in accordance with the iconographic tradition of the Orthodox Church. Christ is depicted in a half-length, frontal pose, following a Byzantine-inspired composition that emphasizes His divine nature and role as universal judge. His face is solemn and hieratic, with His gaze directed toward the viewer, establishing a direct relationship of intercession and spiritual authority. Christ is depicted in the act of blessing with His right hand, while in His left He holds the Gospel—either open or closed—a symbol of the divine Word and Law. The composition is arranged according to a strict symmetry typical of Pantocrator iconography, in which the representation is not naturalistic but theological, expressing Christ’s divine nature and cosmic sovereignty. The work belongs to the post-Byzantine tradition of devotional icons, intended for both liturgical veneration and private devotion, and represents one of the most widespread and significant types of Orthodox sacred art. Item condition rating: **** good. The icon is in good condition, with normal wear and defects commensurate with its age and use over time; some color loss.