Icon Of Christ The Pantocrator With Selected Saints. Russia, 1850–1860

A mid-19th-century Russian icon of Christ Pantocrator, painted on a thick cypress panel without reinforcing struts. The central composition depicts the canonical image of Christ in half-length, with his right hand raised in a gesture of blessing and holding the open Gospel in his left hand.

This icon is distinguished by the high quality of its painting, its carefully crafted decorative structure, and the harmonious combination of the traditional Orthodox canon with the artistic characteristics of mid-19th-century Russian iconography. On either side of the halo are sacred inscriptions set within elegant Baroque cartouches, while an ornamental band separates the central image from the icon’s margins. The borders feature selected saints: Saint Michael the Scribe and Saint Agnes the Martyr.

The imposing dimensions and considerable thickness of the cypress panel attest to a commission of the highest quality and to the special attention paid to the choice of materials as well as to the artistic execution. The icon’s decorative design reflects the influence of Second Baroque aesthetics: the expressive contrasts between the dark lines of the cartouches, the black-and-gold ornamental frame, and the deep tones of Christ’s chiton create a solemn and decorative impression.

The muted olive hues and soft color palette lend the image a special warmth and a profound spiritual dimension. The naturally aged surface, with its noble patina and network of craquelure, preserves the authentic character of the ancient Russian iconographic tradition.

Dimensions: 40 × 34.2 × 4.4 cm.

Material: Cypress panel, tempera, gilding.

Condition: Good condition. Natural signs of age, darkening, and patina on the paint layer; cracks in the background consistent with the icon’s period of creation and conservation history.