Russian Icon - 'The Twelve Feasts'

19th Century.

Painted with prayer

19th Century Russian icon. 320x268mm. Tempera on wood with silver overlaid riza (cover), backed with velvet. 
Richly detailed Russian Christian icon, finely painted with glowing pigments on a gold ground. The central painting depicts Christ's resurrection and his appearance to the apostles. Flanking this are representations of the Twelve Feasts - significant events in Christ's life, from The Birth Of The Virgin to The Presentation in The Temple. Antique icons are said to have been "painted with prayer"; the painter asking God to direct their work, or praying while they paint. It is rare to find an antique icon with its silver riza both intact and in such beautiful condition.