Russian antique icon of Christ Pantocrator, 19th century, restored wood board, 12x11 in

Russian antique icon of Christ Pantocrator, 19th century, restored wood board, 12x11 in. The icon of Christ Pantocrator embodies the highest glory and power of Christ. It represents the most famous Christological icon and depicts Jesus in a blessing position with an expressive and hieratic face. The figure, depicted frontally, takes on a majestic and severe attitude. Notable features include the Gospel held in the left hand, open and facing the faithful, and the position of the fingers, with the thumb and ring finger joined, a gesture of blessing, following Orthodox/Byzantine ritual. On the halo, technically called a Nimbus, the typical Greek letters representing the phrase "the One who is" can be identified, while a foliate pattern in gold and blue on the background embellishes the solemnity of the depicted subject. An observation regarding the Gospel book is worth mentioning. In this icon, the volume is depicted open and bears the inscriptions of the text from Matthew: 'A new command I give you: that you love one another just as I have loved you - Come to me, all you who are afflicted - Take my yoke upon you - I am the Light of the world - Do not judge, or you too will be judged''. Icons depicting the closed book are very rare because the Orthodox Church preferred its faithful to have access to reading some very important phrases for Christian Liturgy. Those who argued for the need to keep it closed claimed that it should be the great Gospel book of Mark, John, Luke, and Matthew that should remain imprinted in the minds of all Christians and not just the words of a single Evangelist, as all four had the ability to convey all the Knowledge and not just two or three thoughts of Christ. Subject: Christ Pantocrator Origin: Choluy, Russia Technique: egg tempera Materials: wood, levkas Era: 19th century Restoration date: 21st century Dimensions: 12.2x10.6x0.8 in. The icon includes a protective case and expertise from an expert.