Icon Of The Virgin Mary, 16th Century Cretan School / Mary Mother Of God

Splendid and rare icon of the Mother of God of the Intercession.
The style and great finesse of this icon allow us to attribute it to the renowned Cretan school of the 16th century. This school flourished from the 15th to the 17th centuries in Crete, then under Venetian rule, . It is characterized by the influence of early renaissance Italian masters on the older Greco-Byzantine iconographic canons. The expressions are notably less severe and the features more modelled.

In this composition, Mary is seen praying, head bowed, imploring her son to save humanity. Her expression is particularly soft and deep, inviting the viewer to contemplate.

The icon is painted in tempera (paint made from egg yolk and natural pigments) on a wooden panel. The background is gilded with gold leaf, bringing a superb light to the whole. The chromatic range is rich and warm, dominated by reds, greens/blues and browns.

Very good overall condition, with a beautiful patina. Signs of wear, smalls cracks and minor losses consistent with the age of this work. Restorations to the paint layer in the lower border.
This work was originally part of a suite of three icons - called Déisis - also featuring representations of Christ and St. John the Baptist.
It is sold with a certificate of authenticity.
Dimensions:
Height: 25 cm Width: 21 cm