Lot number 2144 - Auction 156
MUSEALE IKONE MIT DEN HEILIGEN KIRCHENVÄTERN ATHANASIUS DEM GROSSE UND KYRILL VON ALEXANDRIEN

AN IMPORTANT ICON WITH THE HOLY CHURCH FATHERS ATHANASIUS THE GREAT AND CYRIL OF ALEXANDRIA Russian, 15th century Tempera on wood panel with kovcheg. Finely painted against a golden background. Inscribed on the reverse. The saints are depicted in strict frontality, their right hands raised in a gesture of blessing, while in their left they hold the closed Gospel book. The ascetically rendered faces are plastically modeled with delicate white highlights. Particularly appealing is the refined treatment of the liturgical vestments-omophorion and sakkos-decorated with geometric cross motifs in red, black, and brown on a white ground. 36.2 x 27.9 cm. The Church Fathers Athanasius of Alexandria and Cyril of Alexandria rank among the most important theologians of the early Church. Both served as Patriarchs of Alexandria and played a decisive role in shaping Christian doctrine. Athanasius firmly defended the consubstantiality of Christ with God, while Cyril emphasized above all the unity of the divine and human natures of Christ. Owing to their theological significance and their shared sphere of activity, they are frequently depicted together as episcopal saints in icon painting.