Magnificent Russian Orthodox Calendar Icon of the Great Feasts – Palekh School

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Magnificent Russian Orthodox Calendar Icon of the Great Feasts – Palekh School:
$17499.99

Magnificent Russian Orthodox Calendar Icon of the Great Feasts – Palekh School, c.1850

This outstanding Russian Orthodox icon presents a richly detailedLiturgical Calendar of the Twelve Great Feasts, expanded withsixteen narrative scenesand bordered by theFour Evangelists. Painted in the renownedPalekh School of Moscowaround1850, it exemplifies the refined artistry, theological depth, and jewel-like precision that made Palekh masters among the most sought-after iconographers of Imperial Russia.

At the heart of the composition is theResurrection of Christ and the Descent into Hades, surrounded by a cycle of feast scenes depicting pivotal moments in the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary. Each vignette is rendered with luminous colors, delicate gilded highlights, and architectural details characteristic of the Palekh tradition.

Scenes depicted include:

The Annunciation
Nativity of Christ
Presentation in the Temple
Baptism of Christ (Theophany)
Entry into Jerusalem
Crucifixion and Elevation of the Cross
Resurrection / Harrowing of Hades
Dormition of the Virgin
Additional festal and hagiographic scenes

Framing the icon are theFour Evangelists—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—each seated at their writing desks, underscoring the scriptural foundation of the imagery. The intricate geometric and vegetal ornamentation of the borders, executed in radiant gold, further elevates the icon’s visual and spiritual presence.

Details:

Date:c. 1850
Origin:Palekh School, Moscow, Russia
Subject:Calendar Icon with 16 Feast Scenes and the Four Evangelists
Medium:Egg tempera and gold on gessoed wood panel
Dimensions:21 x 17 in (53.3 x 43.2 cm)

This icon stands out not only for itslarge scaleandsuperb condition, but also for therefinement of its miniature painting, which rivals the quality of manuscript illumination. It represents both a devotional masterpiece and a collector’s treasure, embodying the highest achievements of Palekh iconography in the 19th century.