russian, silver icon of the archangel raphael, painted and cloisonné enamels. late 19th century.

A rare Russian silver icon depicting Archangel Raphael, executed in painted and cloisonné enamels. By the quality of artistic execution, refinement of enamelling techniques and overall stylistic character, the icon belongs to the high circle of Moscow silversmith workshops of the late 19th century. It was most likely produced as a private commission, closely associated with the traditions of the workshop of Pavel Ovchinnikov and its artistic milieu.The obverse features a half-length representation of Archangel Raphael holding the Holy Scriptures. The Archangel’s face is rendered with remarkable softness and spiritual depth, with finely modelled features and a restrained, harmonious colour palette. The folds of the garments are delicately painted against a shimmering silver ground, creating an effect of inner radiance and emphasising the sacred purity of the image. The iconographic field is framed by a high kovcheg border, decorated with a geometric triangular ornament executed in rich blue, turquoise, red and white enamels.The reverse is designed as a complex symmetrical composition centred on a cross, surrounded by stylised vegetal motifs and floral rosettes. The decoration reflects the Neo-Russian style of the second half of the 19th century, incorporating Gothic-inspired scrollwork. The suspension loop for a cord or chain is mounted on a hinged bail and richly adorned with bands of cloisonné enamel, underlining the bespoke nature of the object and its intended use for personal devotional wear.Dimensions: Height 6.2 cm; width 3.8 cm.Weight: 54 g.Condition: Good. The enamels are vivid and largely intact, with minor signs of age consistent with the period.Provenance: Private collection. Width: 3.8cm, Height: 6.2cm, Depth: 0.7cm, Weight: 0.054kg, Condition: Good, Material: Enamel, ID: 8482

Antiques.co.uk Ref: WMG5CTBVH

Width (cm):

3.8

Height (cm):

6.2

Depth (cm):

0.7

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