108

A FINE AND IMPORTANT RUSSIAN ICON: The Resurrection and Descent Into Hades, circa 1550-1600. Early icons depicted the VOSKRESENE (Resurrection) as it is shown here in the offered lot. Christ is enclosed within a mandrola. He stands atop the fallen gates of Hades and grasps the hand of Adam who rises out of his sepulcure. To the right, Eve also rises from her tomb. In the background is a sampling of numerous Old Testament righteous men and women who are also set free from their captivity. They include Kings Solomon and David, as well as Moses, Daniel and others. At mid left is depicted the jaws of hell, the mouth of a great monster. At the lower right, an angel descends and binds Hades, shown as a bearded Devil. Some losses and later restorations. 9.75 inches by 8.25 inches (25 cm x 21 cm).

Estimate $3,500-$5,000