Double-sided Processional Icon Of The Virgin And Saint Nicholas, Russia, 19th Century

A beautiful and rare church icon used in processions. It is double-sided, depicting the Mother of God of Vladimir on one side and Saint Nicholas on the other.
It dates from the mid-19th century and comes from Central Russia.
One side shows Mary tenderly embracing her son, cheek to cheek. This iconographic representation is of the "eleousa" type, meaning compassion in Greek. It symbolizes infinite love.
On the other side, Saint Nicholas, known as the "miracle worker," is depicted in bust form, wearing his bishop's robes. He blesses with his right hand and holds the Bible in the other.
Both paintings are delicately executed in tempera (egg yolk-based paint) in a predominantly pale green and red palette. The expressions, of great gentleness, invite contemplation and serenity.
The icon is in good overall condition with a lovely patina. There is some wear consistent with age, including craquelure, losses and small paint touch-ups. 
It is presented with its rare painted wooden handle, originally fitted and without any signs of damage or insect infestation. In the vast majority of cases, antique processional icons found on the art market today have had unfortunately their handles cut off at their base.
Here, there is still an old label in Russian on the handle from the "Central Gallery" ("Центральный салон") which originally sold this icon. The label includes information about the item: Name, type, sales reference and price ("Наименование, изделия, арти́кул, цена").
This very interesting collector's item is sold with its certificate of authenticity and a full description.
Dimensions:
Total height with handle: 116 cm
Height of icon only: 42.5 cm
Width of icon only: 35.5 cm