129 - Russian icon with a sumptuous gilt-metal riza, depicting the Mother of God "Joy of All Who Sorrow" - 19th century

Russian icon with a sumptuous gilt-metal riza, depicting the Mother of God "Joy of All Who Sorrow" - 19th century Egg tempera on panel Height x width: 44.5 x 35.5 cm The sumptuous metallic robe, finely crafted with embossing, chisel work, and punching, dominates the entire composition, enhancing the three-dimensionality of the figures and drapery. In the exact center, within a large, radiant elliptical mandorla with thick embossed rays that simulate divine light, the Mother of God stands out in full figure. The Virgin wears a regal crown embossed to resemble daylight and holds the Divine Infant Emmanuel on her left arm, while the drapery of her maphorion and robe is adorned with a meticulous floral and geometric pattern, shiny and with a satin finish. At the Virgin’s sides and feet, pyramidal ranks of the afflicted, the sick, and the needy unfold, divided into the traditional six narrative groups; each group is guided and protected by winged angelic figures who lean out from the sides, offering comfort. In the upper portion, floating among embossed clouds and elegant angels in adoring flight, are the half-length figures of the holy intercessors and, in the exact center above the Marian crown, the clipeated representation of God the Blessing Father (the Lord Sabaoth). In the lower section, set between ornamental scroll motifs, two majestic kneeling angels hold up an elaborate Rococo shield cartouche, finely engraved with a burin featuring calligraphic characters in Old Church Slavonic that convey the liturgical and dedicatory text of the prayer. Beneath the golden covering, the painted faces—characterized by dark complexions and satori (sankir)—emerge through the special perimeter slots (podolozhnik), intensely imbued with a deep period patina resulting from the natural oxidation of the ancient protective varnishes (olifa). The entire composition is solemnly enclosed by a large, thick perimeter border embossed in relief with a dense Baroque motif of plant shoots and large acanthus spirals. 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. Defects along the edges of the riza.