Russian Orthodox Three-Panel Folding Icon (Skladen) of Saint Nicholas the Miracle Worker of Mira with Great Feasts on Side Panels, circa XIX C.
In bronze, weighs 3 ½ oz. The side panels measure 2" x 1" each, the middle panel is 2" square. The icon portrays one of the most venerated saints among Russian Old Believers: St. Nicholas, patron of travelers and protector of the persecuted as the archbishop of Myra in Asia Minor, wearing a christening gown. He is shown under the Not-Made-By-Hands image of Christ, the Old Testament Trinity and two seraphim above the central panel, with four Orthodox Feasts on side panels: Entry into Jesusalem, Presentation at the Temple, Descent into the Hades, and the Ascension. In the central part of the triptych, his right hand is raised in the characteristic two-fingered blessing, while he holds the Book of Gospels in his left hand.
To the left of St. Nicholas in the central panel is an image of Jesus, and to the right is an image of Theotokos (Mother of God), reminding viewers of the miracle at the First Ecumenical Council in Nicaea in 325, where their appearance saved Nicholas from expulsion for fighting against the Arian heresy. The floral design, rings, and triangular symbols represent the heavenly realm and divine forces.
The icon is in very good condition. There is mild wear to the high points of the artwork, so the faces are not clearly defined, while the background details are very finely sculpted and largely intact. Overall, a well-preserved icon richly decorated with beautiful artwork.
Please note, the penny in our photo is for size reference.
Item# 46773
$190.00 Add to cart