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A FINE AND IMPORTANT RUSSIAN ICON: ST. NICHOLAS, circa 1575. A large and imposing icon perhaps once a side of a double sided processional icon. In this typical depiction Nicholas is shown displaying the main characteristics ascribed to him by tradition. He wears a bishop's stole (omofor) above his neck. He wears a cross decorated sakkos and holds a book of Gospels in his left hand while delivering a blessing with his right. The shoulder height Slavonic inscription reads: "AGIOS NIKOLAE CHUDOTVORETS"-"Holy Nicholas the Wonder Worker". Overall in an excellent state of preservation. Together with a later gilded riza (not illustrated). 24 inches by 20 inches. (61 cm x 50.5 cm) Estimate $8,000-$12,000 For a nearly identical icon see: Vladimir Ivanov, "Russian Icons" Rizzoli Publishing, New York, 1988. Page 71, illustration #41 an icon of St. Nicholas identified as 16th century.

529

A RUSSIAN ICON: The Resurrection and Descent, 17th century. In both the East and West, early Christian iconographers depiction of the resurrection were rendered in a similar manner to the offered lot. The imagery comes largely from the "Acta Pilati" or the "Gospel of Nicodemus", but is also hinted at in 1 Peter 3:19. Here, Christ is seen standing atop the fallen gates of Hades. He reaches down and grasps the hand of Adam and Eve who are shown emerging from their sarcophagi. Christ is depicted within a mandrola-a radiant light. Behind Him are other Old Testament righteous who await to be released from captivity. At the left rear are Kings Solomon, David, and Moses who holds a tablet containing the Ten Commandments. 12.5 inches by 10.75 inches. (32 cm x 27.5 cm) Estimate $1,750-$2,500