Icon of the Protection Pokrov Madonna del Velo 19th century Russia, 26x18 cm

Ancient Russian orthodox icon of the Madonna of Pokrov: ''Protection of the Mother of God''. The icon of Protection is traditionally associated with one of the greatest Byzantine hymnographers, St. Roman the Melode. Legend has it that he had an unpleasant voice until the Virgin appeared to him and bestowed upon him the gift of song. The story of Roman is depicted in an unusual way on the top left of the icon, behind the church. Here, the Virgin appears at the bedside of the saint, instructing him to swallow a scroll. By obeying this request, Roman miraculously obtained the gift of song and the talent for composition, which he used to praise the Virgin throughout his life. Numerous heads and figures of the faithful are depicted at the bottom of the icon, while representations of saints and angels multiply at the top. The religious icon is delivered in an elegant blue velvet box and delivered with an evaluation conducted by a specialized expert. Origin: Moscow. Technique: egg tempera. Materials: wood, levkas. Actual measurements: 26.6x18.5 cm. Period: early 19th century