526

A RUSSIAN ICON: In Four Registers, circa 1600,clockwise from upper left the depicted images are: The Annunciation (BLAGOVYESHCHENIE), The Resurrection (VOSKRESENIE), St. Nicholas of Mozhaisk, and the Mother of God of the Sign. Good detailing and composition executed in a style associated with Moscow icon painting of this time period. 12.75 inches by 10.75 inches. (32.5 cm x 27.5 cm) Estimate $4,000-$6,000

527

A GOOD RUSSIAN ICON: The Savior of Smolensk, 17th century. The title of this icon is taken from an icon of this type that was once placed above the gate through which soldiers passed on their way to liberate the city of Smolensk. Here Christ is depicted full length delivering a blessing with His right hand and with His left hand holding the Gospels open to reveal Matthew 11:28. A pair of angels hover near Him. Their cloth-covered hands hold the implements of the passion: cross, spear, sponge on reed. Prostrated at the feet of Christ are St. Sergei of Radonezh (left) and St. Varlam Khutuinskiy (right). 12.5 inches by 10.75 inches. (32 cm x 27.5 cm) Estimate $3,500-$5,000

527A

A FINE RUSSIAN ICON: Saint Alexander Svirsky, circa 1625. Here the Great Monastic Father is depicted as a monk wearing the skema. He holds a scroll displaying spiritual advice to his followers and which begins: "Brothers do not let your thoughts..." With his right hand he delivers a blessing of the type favored by the Old Believers. The top margin depicts the Old Testament Trinity image, the name of his monastery. Most likely produced in the Valaam Monastery. Note the much narrower side borders in comparison to the top and bottom borders. A stylistic element often found on icons of this vintage. 12.5 inches x 9.5 inches (31.5cm x 24cm). Estimate $2,500-$3,500