Ancient Russian quadripartite icon of the Crucifixion, 19th century, 12.2x10.2 in
Ancient Russian quadripartite icon of the Crucifixion, 19th century, 12.2x10.2 in.
Ancient Russian quadripartite icon of the Crucifixion from Yaroslavl, Russia, datable to the mid-19th century. The panel measures 12.2x10.2 in and is executed in egg tempera on wood with levkas.
The composition gathers several Marian and Christological subjects within a single panel, arranged in a quadripartite structure that brings together distinct themes of Orthodox devotion. The Crucifixion occupies the central...
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Ancient Russian quadripartite icon of the Crucifixion, 19th century, 12.2x10.2 in.
Ancient Russian quadripartite icon of the Crucifixion from Yaroslavl, Russia, datable to the mid-19th century. The panel measures 12.2x10.2 in and is executed in egg tempera on wood with levkas.
The composition gathers several Marian and Christological subjects within a single panel, arranged in a quadripartite structure that brings together distinct themes of Orthodox devotion. The Crucifixion occupies the central field, while the four surrounding sectors depict images of the Mother of God connected to prayer, consolation and hope.
The first subject is the Mother of God “Softening of Evil Hearts”, an iconography linked to the prophecy of Simeon. The Virgin is associated with maternal sorrow and prayer for the softening of hostile sentiments, becoming an image of mercy, reconciliation and relief from spiritual suffering.
The second sector shows the Mother of God “Console My Sorrow”, a typically Russian representation in which Mary appears thoughtful and sharing in human suffering; the title recalls the Akathist hymn and underlines 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. The composition is notable for the close relationship 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 iconography connected to the hope of salvation and spiritual aid offered to those in difficulty or distant from the faith, emphasising the Virgin’s maternal and intercessory function in the Orthodox tradition.
The juxtaposition of these four images with the Crucifixion creates a strongly devotional composition in which Christ’s sacrifice is related to suffering, mercy, consolation and redemption.
The icon is supplied with an expert appraisal and a velvet presentation box.
Provenance: Yaroslavl, Russia.
Period: mid-19th century.
Technique: egg tempera.
Materials: wood and levkas.
Dimensions: 12.2x10.2 in.
Subjects: Crucifixion; Softening of Evil Hearts; Console My Sorrow; The Hope of Sinners; She Who Seeks the Lost
Accompanying items: expert appraisal and velvet box.