MacDougall Auctions 8 June 2009
8 June 2009
181. A LARGE ICON OF THE MOTHER OF GOD ENTERING THE TEMPLE
RUSSIAN (YAROSLAVL), XVII CENTURY
92.3 by 71.2 cm.
40,000-50,000 pounds
Against the open, ornate gates of the Temple, the High Priest Zachariah stands on a pedestal and leans forward to bless and receive the young Mary who is on the steps in front of him. She is accompanied by her parents, both depicted with sorrowful eyes bending towards their daughter and raising their hands in prayer. Further back a group of seven maidens with hair bands attend the event. The Mother of God appears for a second time on the upper, arched area that represents the Temple interior, where she is visited by the Angel of God, whose presence is suggested by the rayed celestial segment on the top right corner. The background is occupied by an elaborate, imposing construction, the visible brickwork is complemented by decorative elements, such as the scrolls of the columns’ capitals, the tri lobe and leafy architectural details and the balustrades around the buildings. The icon is painted in great detail, the faces are executed with soft shades, a variety of greens contrast with the shades of red.
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.