Russian Works of Art, Fabergé & Icons
Russian Works of Art, Fabergé & Icons
Auction Closed
June 4, 04:28 PM GMT
Estimate
8,000 - 12,000 GBP
Lot Details
Description
An icon of St Seraphim, in a silver-gilt and cloisonné enamel oklad, Ivan Tarabrov, Moscow, 1908-1917
repoussé and chased with the saint praying in a forest, the corners decorated with enamelled flowerheads and scrolls,
struck with workmaster's initials, 84 standard
31.8 by 27cm, 12½ by 10⅝in.
Saint Seraphim of Sarov, born Prokhor Moshnin (1754–1833), is one of the most respected and loved saints in the Russian Orthodox Church. He was born into a family of a merchant, but from an early age strained towards God and found joy in prayer and reading gospels. Throughout his life, Seraphim of Sarov had many visions of the Virgin Mary who protected him in disease and other hardship. After spending almost 25 years in a forest as a hermit, at the end of his life, he opened his cell to many visitors who looked for a blessing of the famous starets and wonder-maker. In 1903, Serafim was canonised, and the glorification ceremony was attended by Tsar Nicholas II and other members of the Imperial Family.