Ancient Russian Orthodox Icon – Two Holy Ascetics Under Mandorla With Golden Nimbus

Circa 1830–1870 | Hand-painted tempera on wood , 37.5 × 39 × 4.5 cm

This is a rare and finely preserved 19th-century Russian Orthodox icon depicting two full-length ascetic saints flanking a central architectural shrine, beneath a celestial mandorla featuring Christ Pantocrator or the Virgin Mary with Christ. The saints, possibly St. Tikhon and St. Makary, are rendered in vibrant tempera with intricate detailing of their robes and gestures, typical of provincial icon workshops in 19th-century Central Russia.

Each saint is adorned with a beautifully preserved repoussé metal halo (venets), emphasizing their sanctity and adding a unique dimensional texture to the composition. The icon is painted on a thick, hand-carved wooden panel, measuring an impressive 4.5 cm in depth, which indicates it was made for serious devotional use—either in a home prayer corner, monastic cell, or side chapel.

The palette features rich reds, earthy browns, and gold highlights, framed by a deep border. Minor wear and craquelure are consistent with age and devotional handling, adding to its authenticity.

The reverse bears traces of handwritten and painted Cyrillic inscriptions, likely referencing Tikhon, Makary, Pavel, and Nazar—either saints or family donors. The yellow-painted names and graphite inscriptions suggest continued use across generations, potentially in a monastic or rural ecclesiastical setting. The wood shows natural aging, scattered wormholes, and historical surface wear, confirming its untouched, original condition.

• Origin: Russia (likely Central or Northern provinces)

• Period: Mid-19th century (circa 1830–1870)

• Medium: Egg tempera and gilt metal on gessoed wood

• Dimensions: 37.5 cm height × 39 cm width × 4.5 cm depth

• Condition: Very good antique condition; minor losses, original paint layer preserved; stable structure; visible patina and devotional wear