Russian Icon of St Nicholas with Brass Oklad and Enamelled Halo, 1900s

Details

Description

An embossed brass oklad frames the painted features of Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker, depicting the venerated bishop raising his right … Read more An embossed brass oklad frames the painted features of Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker, depicting the venerated bishop raising his right hand in blessing while supporting the closed Gospels with his left. Only the facial features, trimmed beard, and hands are painted directly in oils on the underlying timber panel, designed precisely to align with the cut-outs of the metal revetment. Radiating sunburst engraving illuminates the background behind the figure, bordered by patterned chased bands that define the saint's vestments and shoulders. Over the head rests a detachable arched halo and mitre crest crafted in silvered or brass cloisonné wirework. The enamel cells are filled with opaque polychrome enamels in turquoise, sky blue, lilac, petal pink, and white, arranged in curling tendrils and scalloped flowerhead rims. The reverse of the enamelled halo reveals hand-soldered wire stays used to anchor it through the oklad. Lifting the crest reveals detailed chasing directly on the brass sheet beneath, confirming the cover was finished prior to the addition of the ornamental halo. The wooden panel is clad on the sides and reverse in traditional crimson velvet, which shows age-related fading and pile wear, and retains an original triangular brass hanging loop at the upper back. Across its outer edges, the icon measures 18 cm high by 14.5 cm wide with an overall depth of 2.4 cm. See less