Bidspirit auction | A UKRAINIAN OIL ON CANVAS

A UKRAINIAN OIL ON CANVAS PAINTING, STILL LIFE ICON OF JESUS WITH SHELL, SIGNED ALEXANDRA MELNIKOV, 1991 - Oil on canvas depicting a contemplative and symbolically charged image of Christ presented in an icon-like frontal format, set within a muted architectural niche. The figure of Jesus is rendered with softened, introspective features against an earth-toned ground, flanked by liturgical objects including a hanging censer on chains, a standing candle, and a large seashell placed prominently in the foreground. The shell functions as a layered Christian symbol, evoking baptism, pilgrimage, and resurrection, while also introducing a surreal still-life element characteristic of late Soviet and early post-Soviet metaphysical painting. The restrained palette of ochres, umbers, and subdued greens, combined with textured brushwork, lends the composition a devotional yet introspective atmosphere. Signed in Cyrillic at the lower right “Александра Мельникова 90/91,” indicating authorship by Alexandra Melnikov and dating to the early 1990s, a period marked by renewed spiritual and symbolic exploration in Ukrainian art. Presented in a molded giltwood frame. 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: 29 x 27 in., (73.7 x 68.6 cm.) Condition: The canvas is stable and well-preserved with no visible tears or structural damage. Light, even craquelure consistent with oil paint and age. Minor surface abrasions and scattered handling marks are visible under raking light. The frame shows moderate wear with small losses and rubbing to the gilded finish, particularly along the edges and corners. Overall, good condition.