Antique Russian icon, Theotokos of Tikhvin, early 19th century, 12.1x10.2 in
Antique Russian icon, Theotokos of Tikhvin, early 19th century, 12.1x10.2 in.
Antique Russian icon depicting the Theotokos of Tikhvin, originating from Moscow, Russia, and datable to the early 19th century. The work measures 12.1x10.2 in and is executed in egg tempera on wood with levkas.
The Theotokos of Tikhvin is one of the most venerated Marian images in the Russian Orthodox tradition. According to chronicles, the icon appeared in 1383 near Novgorod and, after several apparitions, became asso...
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Antique Russian icon, Theotokos of Tikhvin, early 19th century, 12.1x10.2 in.
Antique Russian icon depicting the Theotokos of Tikhvin, originating from Moscow, Russia, and datable to the early 19th century. The work measures 12.1x10.2 in and is executed in egg tempera on wood with levkas.
The Theotokos of Tikhvin is one of the most venerated Marian images in the Russian Orthodox tradition. According to chronicles, the icon appeared in 1383 near Novgorod and, after several apparitions, became associated with Tikhvin, where the Church of the Dormition and later the Tikhvin Monastery were established.
Over the centuries the Theotokos of Tikhvin has been regarded as an image of particular protection; tradition also attributes to her intercession the preservation of the Tikhvin monastery during the Swedish siege of the 17th century, an episode that further spread devotion to the icon throughout Russia.
Iconographically the composition is close to the Hodegetria type: the Virgin supports the Child Jesus and, with her hand, points to him as the way to salvation, while a distinguishing feature of the Tikhvin icon is the blessing gesture of Christ directed toward his Mother.
The subject thus combines the theme of divine motherhood with that of spiritual guidance, making the Theotokos of Tikhvin one of the most recognisable images in the Russian iconographic tradition.
The icon is accompanied by an expert appraisal certificate and a velvet presentation case.
Provenance: Moscow, Russia
Period: early 19th century
Technique: egg tempera
Materials: wood and levkas
Dimensions: 12.1x10.2 in
Subject: Theotokos of Tikhvin
Contents: expert appraisal certificate and velvet case.