Large And Spectacular Icon Of The Great Christian Feasts, Russia 18th Century / Orthodox

Spectacular composition bringing together 12 miniature icons of the great feasts of Christianity, organized around a central subject representing Easter (Resurrection of Christ).

Large in size -- called "imperial format" -- this fascinating miniaturist painting dates from the mid-18th century -- around 1740/1760.
Its style, its palette, its extreme refinement, its meticulousness and its profusion of details allow it to be attributed to a workshop in the "Golden Ring" region, located northeast of Moscow. For centuries, this region was a center of art and spirituality where some of the greatest iconographers of their time worked. Their masterpieces enriched the collections of the imperial court of the Romanovs, the great aristocracy and the high clergy. They are today kept in the largest Russian and international museums.

The 12 scenes represent the Great Feasts of the Orthodox liturgical calendar including the Nativity, the Trinity, the Birth of the Virgin, the Annunciation, the Baptism of Christ, the Presentation of Mary at the temple, the Presentation of Jesus at the temple, the Transfiguration, the Ascension, the Dormition, the Veneration of the Cross and the Entry of Jesus into Jerusalem.

This icon is painted on gold with tempera (paint based on egg yolk and natural pigments) on a wooden panel. The palette is rich and warm and the background of the composition is entirely gilded with leaf -- symbol of divine light.

Very good original state of conservation. Minor wear and tear, cracks, splits and very slight restorations to the pictorial layer.
This icon is sold with its certificate of authenticity and a complete description of the work.
Superb and rare collector's item.
Dimensions: (H) 50 cm by (W) 41.5 cm