Bidspirit auction | A LARGE RUSSIAN ORTHODOX ICON

A LARGE RUSSIAN ORTHODOX ICON OF JOHN THE BAPTIST, 19TH CEN. - The icon depicts Saint John the Baptist, a Judaean preacher active in the area of the Jordan River in the early 1st century AD. Egg tempera on a wooden panel with a kovcheg (incised central panel) and red borders. The central figure is Saint John the Baptist depicted in half-length, pointing to a chalice or paten holding a small Christ child — a symbolic image known as the ”Angel of the Desert” or ”Behold the Lamb of God” (Agnus Dei). The saint is dressed in elaborate robes with finely detailed brocade patterns, surrounded by a gilded background with engraved floral motifs. Late 19th century. Please make all inquiries before bidding. All lots are sold ”as-is”, refer to our T&C. Helios Auctions offers in-house shipping. In case we can not accommodate a shipping request, a list of additional shippers will be provided. Dimensions: 17 3/4 x 14 1/8 in., (45 x 36 cm.) Condition: Extensive craquelure, especially in the background and flesh tones. Areas of pigment loss, particularly along the lower edge and in the robe highlights. Some darkening of varnish, small scratches, and minor abrasions across the surface.