Icon Of The Holy Face Of Christ, Russia 19th / Mandylion / Russia / Ukraine

Beautiful icon representing the Holy Face of Christ, iconographic subject also known under the name of "Mandylion" or "image of Edessa"
It dates from the first half of the 19th century - around 1840/1870  - and comes from the southern part of the Russian empire, probably Ukraine.
It is finely painted on a wooden panel in rich, warm tones.
At the center of the composition, the gentle face of Christ invites contemplation and prayer. An angel stands above the composition and holds the fabric on which the face of Christ (Mandylion) appears.
The icon of the Holy Face finds its origin in a miraculous healing. According to tradition, Christ, during his lifetime, sent his portrait, miraculously printed on a cloth, to the king of Edessa to heal him.
This “unpainted by human hands” image, also called the Edessa image, is considered by the Orthodox Church to be the very first icon.
This icon is in very good original condition. Wear and tear over time, small cracks and losses. An old collection label is glued on the back
It is sold with its certificate of authenticity and a complete description of the work.
Dimensions: 31 cm by 25 cm.