The icon is painted in the traditional iconography of the Mother of God “The Sign”, depicted in the upper part of the composition in a half-length figure with hands raised in prayer and a medallion of Emmanuel on her breast, symbolizing the Incarnation of the Word. The composition is complemented by a row of standing saints arranged frontally against a gilded background, emphasizing the liturgical and intercessory nature of the image. The central grouping forms a solemn symmetry characteristic of Russian icon painting of the second half of the 19th century, with a clear hierarchy of figures and distinctly legible silhouettes. The painting is executed in tempera on gesso with a gilded ground. The palette is restrained, dominated by ochre, green, and cinnabar tones. The faces are softly modeled with gradual highlights, reflecting the academicized tradition of late icon painting. The borders are painted and accentuated with a red outline.
Dimensions: 36 × 31 cm.
Condition: Fair overall condition. Areas of paint loss and abrasion are visible, with wear to the gilding and signs of natural aging of the wooden panel. No visible later overpainting.
Provenance: Private collection.
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.
