MacDougall Auctions 8 June 2009
8 June 2009
* 62. A LUNETTE WITH THE MANDYLION FLANKED BY THE COMMUNION OF THE HOLY APOSTLES
CENTRAL RUSSIA, XVII CENTURY
42.5 by 86.7 cm.
20,000-30,000 pounds
This architectural element was originally placed over the Royal Doors of a small iconostasis. In the centre, the face of Christ with a tripartite halo is imprinted on a cloth with simple and sparse ornamentation. The sides show a nearly mirrored image of Christ offering the Holy Communion to his disciples. Against lofty walls and under a canopy unusually supported by three columns with ornamented capitals, He is represented behind an altar draped in a red and gold textile. To the left, through a paten in front of Him, Christ distributes the bread, and the first to receive it is St. Peter. Opposite, a group of the Apostles are about to drink the wine contained in a gold chalice. This rare lot is rendered traditionally with saturated colours.
Notes on symbols:
* Indicates 5% Import Duty Charge applies.
Ω Indicates 20% Import Duty Charge applies.
§ Indicates Artist's Resale Right applies.
† Indicates Standard VAT scheme applies, and the rate of 20% VAT will be charged on both hammer price and premium.