Antique Russian icon of the Virgin of the Sign, 19th century, 12.2x10.2 in
Antique Russian icon of the Virgin of the Sign, 19th century, 12.2x10.2 in.
Antique Russian icon depicting the Virgin of the Sign, originating from Central Russia and datable to the 19th century. The work measures 12.2x10.2 in and is executed in egg tempera on wood with levkas.
The iconography of the Virgin of the Sign belongs to the Orans type, one of the oldest forms of Marian representation. The Virgin is shown frontally with raised arms in a gesture of prayer, while a medallion on her chest co...
Info and features
Antique Russian icon of the Virgin of the Sign, 19th century, 12.2x10.2 in.
Antique Russian icon depicting the Virgin of the Sign, originating from Central Russia and datable to the 19th century. The work measures 12.2x10.2 in and is executed in egg tempera on wood with levkas.
The iconography of the Virgin of the Sign belongs to the Orans type, one of the oldest forms of Marian representation. The Virgin is shown frontally with raised arms in a gesture of prayer, while a medallion on her chest contains the Christ Child, symbolising the mystery of the Incarnation.
The image evokes the prophecy of Isaiah: “A Virgin shall conceive a Son and his name shall be Emmanuel,” from which the type takes its name. The composition has deep roots in Byzantine tradition and in the ancient Orans images of the Virgin, developing over the centuries into the characteristic form widely venerated in the Russian Orthodox world. The Virgin’s raised hands express prayer and intercession, while the presence of Christ in the medallion highlights Mary’s role as Mother of the Incarnate Word and mediator between heaven and earth.
Provenance: Central Russia.
Period: 19th century.
Technique: egg tempera.
Materials: wood and levkas.
Dimensions: 12.2x10.2 in.
Subject: Virgin of the Sign.
The icon is accompanied by an expert appraisal and a velvet presentation case.