Antique Russian icon of the Twelve Feasts with brass riza, 19th century, 12x10 in

Antique Russian icon of the Twelve Feasts with brass riza, 19th century, 12x10 in.

Antique Russian icon depicting the 12 feasts of the liturgical year with a brass riza.

The twelve main feasts proclaiming the faith of the Church are iconic representations always present in front of the faithful, located in the front row of the iconostasis as a continuous liturgical-biblical catechesis.

Some of these festivities have fixed dates: the Nativity of Mary (September 8), the Exaltation of the Cross (September 14), the start of Holy Week, the Ascension, and the Pentecost.

Russian iconography has enriched this cycle with four other highly significant feasts inspired by sacred scriptures.

Since the 18th century, especially in Russia, iconographic schemes have been developed grouping all twelve feasts into a single composition centered around the Easter depiction. Although not part of the twelve feasts cycle, Easter is considered the ''mother of all feasts'' and represents their synthesis and fulfillment.

These representations give preeminence to the central scene dedicated to Easter, including various elements expressing the theological and biblical significance of the event: Christ's descent into hell, the procession of the blessed to Paradise led by the good thief, Christ's resurrection from the tomb, and his appearance at the Sea of Galilee.

The cycle of the twelve main feasts of the Church includes events that mark the history of salvation and the life of Mary and Jesus. It begins with the Nativity of Mary, followed by her Presentation at the Temple, and the Annunciation, when the angel Gabriel announces to Mary her divine motherhood. This is followed by the Nativity of Jesus and his Presentation at the Temple, a symbol of consecration. The cycle continues with the Baptism of Jesus and his Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem, followed by the Transfiguration, an event where Jesus reveals his divine glory. Next, there is the Ascension, which celebrates Christ's return to the Father, and the representation of the Trinity according to the Old Testament. Among the Marian events is the Dormition of Mary, commemorating her earthly end. Finally, the cycle closes with the Exaltation of the Cross, honouring the instrument of redemption.

The icon is delivered with a blue velvet case and accompanied by an evaluation by a specialised expert.

Origin: Moscow, Russia.

Technique: egg tempera.

Materials: wood, levkas, brass.

Actual measurements: 12.3x10.4 in.

Era: late 19th century.