Antique Russian icon of Archangel Michael, 19th century, 12x10 in

Antique Russian icon of Archangel Michael, 19th century, 12x10 in.

This icon depicts Saint Michael, the Archangel, as a warrior.

In Russian religious tradition, Archangel Michael is venerated as the chief strategist, the commander of the celestial armies in the battle against evil forces.

Saint patron of Kiev, he was portrayed on the armor and coats of arms of the Rurik dynasty. Tsar Ivan the Terrible claimed that the Archangel Michael on the insignia was the "best omen of victory over the infidels".

The icon shows Archangel Michael fighting against Satan, set in a hilly landscape, wielding a sword in his right hand.

In the Old Testament, Michael is the protector angel of Israel and the "noble prince", fighting for the people of God and defending their cause.

With the spread of Christianity, the worship of Archangel Michael greatly expanded in the East.

In Russia, devotion to the powerful protector of Christianity was felt in every era. Many churches were dedicated to him, and in the Orthodox liturgical calendar, he is commemorated twice: on September 6th and October 8th.

Saint Michael was a protagonist of popular devotion, invoked for protection in war, to heal the sick, to protect sailors and merchants, and above all to assist the souls of the desceased in the afterlife.

Delivered in an elegant blue velvet case and accompanied by an evaluation by a specialised expert.

Origin: Moscow, Russia.

Technique: egg tempera.

Materials: wood, levkas.

Measures: 12.1x10 in.

Era: early 19th century.