Ancient Russian quadripartite icon with Crucifixion, 19th century, 31x26 cm
Ancient Russian quadripartite icon with the Crucifixion, from Yaroslavl, Russia, datable to the mid-19th century. The religious icon measures 31x26 cm and is executed in egg tempera on wood with levkas. The composition unites various Marian and Christological subjects within a quadripartite structure: the Crucifixion occupies the center, while the four panels portray images of the Mother of God linked to prayer, consolation and hope. The first subject is the Mother of God “Softening of Evil Hear...
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Ancient Russian quadripartite icon with the Crucifixion, from Yaroslavl, Russia, datable to the mid-19th century. The religious icon measures 31x26 cm and is executed in egg tempera on wood with levkas. The composition unites various Marian and Christological subjects within a quadripartite structure: the Crucifixion occupies the center, while the four panels portray images of the Mother of God linked to prayer, consolation and hope. The first subject is the Mother of God “Softening of Evil Hearts”, a symbolic icon tied to the prophecy of Simeon that represents maternal sorrow and prayer for the softening of hostile feelings; an image of mercy, reconciliation and relief from the sufferings of the soul. The second is the Mother of God “Console my pain”, a typically Russian type showing Mary in a thoughtful, compassionate attitude; the title derives from the Akathist hymn and highlights her role as comforter and intercessor in life's trials. The third image is the Mother of God “The Hope of Sinners”, expressing repentance and trust in divine mercy; it is notable for the close relation between the Virgin and the Christ Child and for Mary’s enveloping gesture around the Son. Completing the set is the Mother of God “She who seeks the lost”, an icon connected to the hope of salvation and spiritual assistance for those in difficulty or distant from the faith, underlining the Virgin’s maternal and intercessory function in the Orthodox tradition. Together with the Crucifixion, these four images form a strongly devotional composition that links Christ’s sacrifice with themes of suffering, mercy, consolation and redemption.
The Orthodox icon is delivered with an expert appraisal and a velvet presentation case.
Origin: Yaroslavl, Russia
Period: mid-19th century
Technique: egg tempera
Materials: wood and levkas
Dimensions: 31x26 cm
Subjects: Crucifixion; Softening of Evil Hearts; Console my pain; The Hope of Sinners; She who seeks the lost
Accompaniment: expert appraisal and velvet presentation case.