Northern Russian School, 18th Century, Large Quadripartite Icon Of The Crucifixion

NORTHERN RUSSIAN SCHOOL, from the vicinity of Solovki Monastery (second half of the 18th century)
Large four-panel icon depicting the Crucifixion, scenes from the Passion, depictions of the Virgin Mary and the Seven Sleepers of Ephesus
Tempera on wooden panel, silver haloes under a gilded varnish (original).
H_52.2 cm W_43 cm
Minor retouching and slight signs of wear.

This important icon is distinguished by its exceptionally rich theological programme, centred on a large central Crucifixion. The arms and the crossbeam of the cross feature scenes from the Passion (the Agony in the Garden of Gethsemane, the Arrest, the Flagellation, the Carrying of the Cross and the Entombment). The four panels depict the Mother of God ‘Joy of All Who Sorrow’, the Mother of God ‘Source of Life’, the Mother of God of Bogolyubov, and the Seven Sleepers of Ephesus.

Most likely produced in a high-calibre workshop in northern Russia, probably in the vicinity of the prestigious Solovki Monastery, the work displays great finesse of execution. The use of silver coated with a golden-yellow varnish (provenis) for the haloes accentuates the preciousness of the piece as a whole. The reverse retains its two recessed reinforcing bars (sponki).