20. "Imperial Icon on Wood, 'Jesus Christ Pantocrator', Wallachia, Brâncovenesc School, era of Constantin Brâncoveanu, late 17th century, museum piece"

Identification elements of iconographic and stylistic order: In the deepened nave of the icon, on a background painted with blue-green at the top and olive green at the bottom, the stately figure of Jesus Christ is depicted, presented frontally. He is represented below the waist, dressed in a red chiton and blue himation; blesses with the right, and on the left he holds the Closed Gospel, locked in gilt silver, inlaid with precious stones and pearls. Notably, above his shoulders, tiny in size, the Virgin Mary and Saint John the Baptist are represented in prayer, as intercessors. The face of Jesus is inscribed in the style of Brancovenesc painting: oval face, large eyes elongated towards the temples, dark circles under the eyes, arched eyebrows, straight nose, small and red mouth. The hair, beard, and mustache are painted brown, and the strands of hair are outlined in dark brown. The modeling of the face is done through a successive range of ochers, and the shadows are rendered in red and olive green. The cruciform nimbus around the head is decorated by incision with a little wheel. The garments is treated according to the tradition in an angular fold, rendered in darker shades of the same color. The icon is paired with the imperial icon of the Virgin Mary with the Child. Identification elements of technical order: A linden wood panel, strengthened at the back with two semi-buried crossbars, broad planed frame, tempera on wood, gold leaf (partially preserved). Conclusions: The icon is an authentic work, framed in the Brâncovenesc style. His painting is executed by an anonymous painter, with great accuracy to the prototype made on the site at Hurezi (A.D.).

Dimensions

width 67.5 cm, height 87.5 cm

Description

tempera and gold leaf on wood

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

For clarifications regarding the bidding procedure, hammer price costs, guarantee, payment, and collection terms for the winning lot, we recommend carefully reading/re-reading the Bidding Regulations.

For additional information regarding the lot and the auction, please contact the Art Consultants Department.