Russia / 19th Century / Religious Icon / Egg Tempera and Gilt on Wood Panel / Antique
A beautifully preserved 19th-century Russian Orthodox icon depicting Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker (St. Nicholas of Myra), one of the most beloved and venerated saints in Eastern Christianity.
Rendered in tempera and gilt on a slightly arched wooden panel, the saint is portrayed half-length, blessing with his right hand and holding the Gospel in his left. Christ and the Mother of God appear in the upper corners, symbolically presenting the Gospel and omophorion, attributes associated with Nicholas’s role as bishop. The composition follows traditional Novgorod and Moscow school iconographic models, emphasizing clarity, warmth, and compassion in the saint’s expression.
The icon features a restrained palette of ochres, golds, and deep reds, with delicate gilt detailing on the vestments and halo. The surface exhibits a fine craquelure and a mellow patina consistent with age, testifying to its authenticity and devotional history.
A striking example of 19th-century Russian ecclesiastical art, this icon embodies both spiritual presence and refined craftsmanship, making it a distinguished addition to any collection of sacred art.
Icons of St. Nicholas are considered the most numerous after the icons of the Mother of God. The saint is traditionally depicted as an old man with graying hair and a beard, whose gaze is filled with kindness and wisdom. He usually wears an omophorion, the attire of an Orthodox bishop, and holds the Gospel in his hands. Sometimes, St Nicholas icon portrays the saint with outstretched arms. This gesture symbolizes blessing and protection for all in need.
St. Nicholas is often portrayed in religious icons as the patron saint of children, sailors, and the poor. Depending on this, one may find silhouettes of ships, figures of children, or attributes associated with the saint’s many miracles painted in the background.
St Nicholas icon possesses healing and miraculous power since Nicholas the Wonderworker is the embodiment of the greatest kindness and sincerity. Praying in front of the icon of Saint Nicholas helps people believe in miracles and escape their ailments.
Ref. 25-0427
Specifications
ConditionGoodColorsMulti ColorMaterialWoodNumber of items1OrientationPortraitArt sizeSmallHeight32 cmWidth28 cmSigns of usageScratches