Russian Palekh Icon – 1890, 12 Feasts & Year Calendar, 44.5×38 cm

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Russian Palekh Icon – 1890, 12 Feasts & Year Calendar, 44.5×38 cm:
$20999.99

This magnificentRussian icon from the renowned Palekh School (circa 1890)presents a grand and intricate composition that unites theTwelve Great Feasts of the Orthodox Churchwith aliturgical year calendar of saints and holy days. At the very center stands theResurrection of Christ (The Descent into Hades), surrounded by richly painted festival scenes and border panels featuring theMother of God iconsand numerous saints.

The artistry reflects the refined style of thePalekh school, known for its delicate brushwork, luminous colors, and exquisite miniature detailing. Each scene is filled with narrative life — from the Nativity and the Baptism of Christ to the Transfiguration and Pentecost — culminating in a breathtaking visual journey through the Orthodox faith.

The icon also functions as aChurch calendar (Menaion), displaying the cycle of feasts and saints venerated throughout the year, with remarkable precision and devotion. Its golden background and finely patterned border frame the composition with elegance and reverence, making it both a spiritual treasure and an artistic masterpiece.

Details

Subject:The Twelve Feasts and Yearly Calendar of Saints
Central Scene:The Resurrection of Christ (Descent into Hades)
Origin:Russia, Palekh School, circa 1890
Medium:Egg tempera and gilding on gessoed wood panel
Dimensions:44.5 × 38 cm (≈17.5 × 15 inches)
Condition:Excellent preserved condition with natural craquelure, minor wear, and rich aged patina

Highlights

RarePalekh Schoolicon combining the 12 Feasts and full Orthodox calendar
Central Resurrection scene surrounded by detailed vignettes of sacred events
Warm gold ground with intricate border designs typical of late 19th-century Palekh work
A masterful example of Russian iconography — devotional, historical, and museum-worthy