Item Overview

Presenting a magnificent and authentic antique Eastern Orthodox wooden panel icon, likely dating to the 19th century. This profound spiritual artifact features a beautiful dual-register composition.

The upper half depicts the Virgin Mary (Theotokos) holding the Christ Child, seated upon heavenly clouds, flanked by the traditional Greek monograms MP ΘY. The lower register features three prominent figures, including an Archangel on the left and two holy saints or martyrs holding crosses. The artwork exhibits exquisite traditional Byzantine styling, with rich, warm earth tones, striking reds, and remnants of gold gilding.

Physical Specifications

• Material: Hand-painted tempera or oil on a solid, hand-hewn wooden panel.
• Dimensions: 35 x 28 cm (13.78 x 11.02 inches)
• Weight: 970 grams (34.22 ounces)
• Construction details: The reverse side features a beautifully aged, dark wood patina with two original horizontal support splines (sponki) and antique hand-forged nails, indicative of highly authentic, period-correct craftsmanship designed to prevent wood warping over the centuries.

Condition Report

This remarkable piece is in authentic antique condition, reflecting its age and history of devotional use. It displays a stunning, natural craquelure across the painted surface. There is expected edge wear, wood aging, and areas of paint loss that only add to the character and genuine antique provenance of the piece. The wooden panel remains structurally incredibly sound and robust.

Please review the high-resolution, carefully captured images provided, as they serve as an integral part of the description and condition report.