Lot number 900 - Auction 161
SEHR FEINE IKONE MIT DEM SCHLEIERWUNDER DER GOTTESMUTTER (POKROW)

A VERY FINE ICON SHOWING THE PROTECTING VEIL OF THE MOTHER OF GOD (POKROV) Russian, Palekh, circa 1800 Tempera on wood panel over canvas. The haloes and background gilded, chrysography. The composition is divided horizontally into two registers. In the lower register, Saint Romanos stands on a raised platform reciting the hymn, flanked by Emperor Leo and Empress Zoe to the left and Saints Andrew and Epiphanios to the right. In the upper register, the Mother of God appears frontally, surrounded by angels and holding the protecting veil across her outstretched arms. Flanked by saints, she raises her hands in intercession towards Christ enthroned above. The entire scene is set within a richly articulated and finely detailed architectural setting. Church Slavonic titulus along the upper border. Very finely and minutely painted. The edges minimally chipped, the lower border minimally restored. 34.5 x 29.4 cm.