An icon of the Archangel Michael, Iosif Semenovich Chirikov, Mstera, Late 19th century

the Archangel Michael, his wings outspread, stands with billowing, crimson cloak upon a cloud,  his sword unsheathed and raised in his right arm, the sign of Christ Emmanuel emblazoned upon his breastplate, his wings painted in gold assist and armour finely decorated in differing shades of gold, signed bottom centre, Iosif S. Chirikov 

Acquired by the present owner from a private German collection

The gold paint of the breastplate has slightly worn away in places. In overall good condition. 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."

Iosif/Osip Semenovich Chirikov was considered to be one of the finest icon painters of his day, along with such others as Mikhail Dikaryov, Vasili Gurianov and Alexander Tsepkov. Chirikov's sons Mikhail and Grigori followed in their father's footsteps and collectively contributed to a renewed resurgence in the quality and skill of icon painting towards the end of the 19^th century.

Based in Mstera, Chirikov was one of the artists commissioned to paint icons for the Imperial Court. As the Archangel Michael was the Patron Saint of the Romanovs, an icon such as this must have held particular significance for the Imperial Family. Imperial taste at this time inclined towards modern icons painted according to the traditions of the 17^th century, icons which stylistically harked back to the glory days of Alexei Mikhailovich (1645-1676), the ancestor and great idol of Tsar Nicholas II's reign.