A silver-gilt, gem-set and seed pearl icon of the Mother of God of the Sign, maker's mark T.R in Cyrillic unidentified, Moscow, 1811, the icon 17th Century

the Virgin's maphorion picked out with seed pearls set to the centre with a ruby and emerald cross, the Virgin and Christ Child's halos embellished with gems, including rose-cut diamonds, emeralds, rubies, garnets, amethysts and nephrite jade, the outer borders mounted with silver, foliate pierced panels and decorated with repoussé and chased leaves, 84 standard

There is evidence of overpainting, in particular to the brown ground. There are a few seed pearls lacking and the Virgin's headdress is pinned to the icon with a drawing pin. Four of the silver mounts are slightly loose, with further minor sections missing, visible in the photograph. A minor section of the left edge of the oklad has broken away but is present and can be restored. The silver-gilt is slightly worn but in overall good condition for its age. One of the small diamonds surrounding the right circular amethyst is lacking. Both amethysts with diamond surrounds have probably been replaced. There are possibly two white sapphires included in the gems. 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."