Icon St. John In Silence, Egg Tempera Painting, Copper Repousse, Russia 19th Century

A 19th century Russian icon painting of Saint John the Theologian “in Silence” using egg tempera on oak board in outstanding condition.
 Saint John in Silence became iconic in the Russian Orthodox Church in the 1600s: the most famous version of which is the 1673 version by Simon Ushakov. This painting follows Ushakov closely in its detailed depiction of the iconography and the quality of the work. It is masterfully accomplished thanks to the use of the right pigments and the perfect strokes that embodies the icon with divinity, as intended.
The pose is iconic with the saint’s two fingers raised to indicate silence as he is not speaking from his own imagination but transcribing the word of God into the book that is open in his hand to the first verse of the Gospel of Saint John. He listens to the word of God through the angel sitting over his right shoulder. 
On his left shoulder we find its attribute, an eagle, the king of birds, looking towards him.
What completes this imposing icon, is the intricate copper repousse laying over the oaken board. The elaborate copper work commands your immediate attention. The shapes are those of fig leaves, olives, and olive branches intertwined. And the fine detail astounds the viewer. For example, the halo above the head of John has 7 fig leaves inside symbolizing the 7 points of wisdom. 
This is a serious and dignified piece of art that deserves worship.
Measurements 
35 cm x 25 cm.
Condition
Excellent overall condition. No damage, chips or flaking present in the paint (quite remarkable). Craquelure consistent with age.
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