Bidspirit auction | 1844 ST. PETERSBURG RUSSIAN 84

1844 ST. PETERSBURG RUSSIAN 84 SILVER OKLAD ICON THE SIGN - A sophisticated 19th-century Russian Orthodox icon of the Mother of God ”The Sign” (Znamenie). The icon features a high-quality academic-style painting on wood, overlaid with a magnificent repoussé and chased solid 84-silver oklad (riza) featuring scrolling foliate and shell motifs. The Virgin is depicted with a separate, monumental silver-gilt radiant halo (nimbe) surmounted by an imperial crown. Hallmarks: Stamped on the lower edge with the St. Petersburg city mark (anchors/scepter), the 84 silver standard, the assayer’s mark of Alexander Sheviakov (A.T) dated 1844, and the maker's initials ”А.И” (A.I.). A superb example of mid-19th-century Russian ecclesiastical silver from the Imperial capital. russian icon, znamenie, st petersburg silver, 1844 riza, antique orthodox icon, 84 silver, mother of god of the sign. Dimensions 9 x 7 7/8 in. The measurements are approximate. Condition Good antique condition. The silver oklad exhibits fine detail with minor tarnishing and light surface wear. There is a small, historic puncture to the silver riza below the central medallion. The silver-gilt halo is securely attached. The painted elements are stable and vibrant. The reverse is covered in later black velvet for display.