Important Icon Of The Major Orthodox Feasts, Russia, Circa 1800

This large and spectacular icon depicts the Resurrection of Christ at its center, surrounded by 16 miniature scenes illustrating the major annual feasts of the Orthodox Church. It dates from the late 18th or early 19th century—circa 1780–1820

Its style, color palette, extreme refinement, and wealth of detail suggest it was created in a top of the  line icon-painting workshop in the Volga region of Russia.

The icon is painted in warm tones using tempera (a paint made from egg yolk and natural pigments) on an oak panel. The background is gilded with gold leaf—lending incomparable light and depth to the entire composition.

The 17 scenes depict the major feasts of the Orthodox liturgical calendar, including Easter, the Nativity, the Trinity, the Birth of the Virgin, the Annunciation, the Baptism of Christ, and Jesus’ Entry into Jerusalem.
In the corners are the four Evangelists—Mark, Matthew, John, and Luke.

In very fine original condition. Slight signs of age, craquelure, gaps and minor restorations to the paint layer.
It is in the so-called “imperial” format, with impressive dimensions of 53 cm high by 44 cm wide.
A superb and rare collector’s item.
It is sold with its certificate of authenticity and a complete description.