The Guardian Angel, St Nicholas, St. Pantaleimon, St. Serafim from Sarov and the Bishops Dmitrii from Rostov and Feodosii from Chernigov, circle of Dikariev, circa 1900

the Guardian Angel appearing with his hands raised in prayer against a bright blue background, Saint Nicholas in the centre accompanied by Saint Panteleimon, Saint Serafim from Sarov and the Bishops Dmitrii from Rostov and Feodosii from Chernigov

Loss of paint in the blue background. Minor retouching. We would advise prospective buyers to view the lot.
"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 selection of saints is typical for the reign of tsar Nicholas II. Saints like Serafim of Sarov (1759-1833, canonized in 1903) and Feodosii of Chernigov (d. 1696, canonized in 1896) were canonized against the views of the Orthodox Synod, but according to the instructions of the Empress. Their images bore witness to the belief that piety and miracles existed not only in history but could also occur in the present day - that 'Holy Russia' was an actual reality.
An icon with the same iconography of the Guardian Angel appearing in the blue background, signed Dikariev, is in a private collection in Russia.  The iconography, the highly refined painting and the skillful technique of the present icon indicates it has been painted by Dikariev himself or by a member of his immediate circle.