An antique Russian icon of the Mother of God “Unexpected Joy”, executed in the traditions of 19th-century Russian icon painting. The composition depicts the characteristic iconographic subject of a repentant sinner`s miraculous appeal to the Most Holy Mother of God. The work is distinguished by its expressive narrative arrangement, rich colour palette and finely rendered architectural and decorative details.
In the upper right section of the composition is an icon of the Mother of God holding the Christ Child, before which the sinner offers his prayers. The Virgin wears a deep crimson maphorion embellished with gilt decorative details. The Christ Child is depicted in red garments, His hand raised in blessing. Beneath the image is a rectangular panel bearing a devotional inscription in Church Slavonic.
In the lower left section, a kneeling man wearing pale green robes and a red cloak turns towards the image of the Mother of God. His raised hands and expressive posture convey repentance and fervent prayer. A fine diagonal inscription connects the figures, emphasising the spiritual dialogue between the supplicant and the sacred image.
The interior architectural setting is defined by a richly ornamented green wall, with decorative surrounds framing the window openings, and a geometrically delineated tiled floor. On the right border, within a narrow shaped reserve, stands a selected saint wearing green robes and holding an unfurled scroll.
The painting is characterised by delicate draughtsmanship, smoothly modelled faces and an expressive combination of golden-ochre, green and reddish-brown tones. The broad borders, painted in warm brown hues, are outlined with fine red lines. The icon is executed on a wooden panel.
Materials and Technique: Wood panel, gesso, probably tempera, gilding.
Dimensions: 32.6 × 25.4 cm.
Condition: Natural signs of age. Surface wear, localised losses to the paint layer, scratches and minor cracks in the painted surface. The reverse of the wooden panel exhibits numerous small holes consistent with woodworm activity. The principal composition remains clearly legible.
The condition report is provided for informational purposes only.
It is not comprehensive and may not reflect all defects, restorations, alterations, or adaptations, as Antiqon does not perform professional conservation-level assessments. The information is based on a qualified, yet subjective, evaluation by our specialists.Before purchasing, we recommend consultation with an independent expert.Please also consult our Terms and conditions and Glossary A-Z, which contain important information on lot characteristics and sale conditions.
