The Miracle of Floros and Lauros, Northern Russia, 17th century

the Archangel Michael with his wings outspread stands against the ivory coloured gesso of the background, he holds in his hands the reigns of two horses, flanked by the figures of Floros and Lauros, upon whom he confers the protection of horses, all three figures stand atop mountains, at the foot of which a herd of horses is driven to a watering place by the Sainted Cappadocian grooms Speuesippos, Eleusippos and Meleusippos

The Temple Gallery, London

UV light reveals extensive restoration and over painting to the icon. We would advise prospective buyers to view.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The twin brothers Floros and Lauros were second century stone masons from Ilyria who gave all the money they earned to the poor. They converted many  to Christianity, amongst them the Pagan High Priest of a nearby country and his entire family. The Priest's son's eye had been damaged by a splinter of stone and he was cured by the prayers of the saints. Hearing of this the local governor ordered the two brothers to undergo harsh tortures and sent them back to Ilyria to be brought before its governor, Licinios. Since they still refused to denounce Christ, Licinios ordered that they be thrown down a deep, dry well, and buried under earth.

Many years later the locals observed horses drinking water that had miraculously appeared from a dried up well. Here they uncovered the immaculately preserved bodies of Floros and Lauros.

It is the Russian custom to drive horses to water to a river or pond on the 18th August, after a short service (molebin) in honour of the Saints. The water is blessed and the horses bathed.