Bidspirit auction | ANTIQUE 17TH C RUSSIAN ICON

ANTIQUE 17TH C RUSSIAN ICON OF JOHN THE BAPTIST - An antique Russian Orthodox icon depicting John the Baptist in the Angel of the Desert iconography. Dated 17th century. Mixed media painting: egg tempera, gesso, and levkas on a wood board. This iconographic type was extremely popular in the Eastern Orthodox tradition in the 16th and 17th centuries. Inspired by Christ's description of John in the Gospels as messenger, the image of the winged Forerunner corresponds not only to his function as a messenger but also to the ascetic life of a terrestrial angel and celestial man. Keywords: Icon Paintings, Religious Items, Christian Art, Collectibles. Dimensions 18 x 15 in. All measurements are approximate. Condition Overall good vintage condition. Signs of age and wear. Chips. Craqerules. Refer to photos. Sold As Is.