An exceptional, museum quality very large 18th century Greek icon of the Pentecost.
Egg tempera and gold leaf on wood, primed with gesso.
Attributed to Mount Athos- please see References.
Vibrant, with beautiful architectural details, the icon depicts the twelve Apostles gathered at the event which is described in the Book of Acts, Acts 2:1-4, as the Holy Spirit descended upon them as tongues of fire, enabling them to preach in different languages. The seat in the center of the gathering, between the Apostles Peter and Paul, is left empty for it is the place where Christ would be seated, the Teacher’s seat, a place of honor. Though Christ is not physically present, he guides as the Holy Spirit. At the center bottom of the icon is the figure of an old king holding scrolls on a white cloth against a dark background. Known as Kosmos, he represents the people of the world. The dark background stands for corruption and mayhem, but the scrolls he holds denote the teachings of the Apostles, signifying redemption.
Egg tempera and gold leaf on wood, primed with gesso.
Attributed to Mount Athos- please see References.
Vibrant, with beautiful architectural details, the icon depicts the twelve Apostles gathered at the event which is described in the Book of Acts, Acts 2:1-4, as the Holy Spirit descended upon them as tongues of fire, enabling them to preach in different languages. The seat in the center of the gathering, between the Apostles Peter and Paul, is left empty for it is the place where Christ would be seated, the Teacher’s seat, a place of honor. Though Christ is not physically present, he guides as the Holy Spirit. At the center bottom of the icon is the figure of an old king holding scrolls on a white cloth against a dark background. Known as Kosmos, he represents the people of the world. The dark background stands for corruption and mayhem, but the scrolls he holds denote the teachings of the Apostles, signifying redemption.
The Orthodox icon of the Feast of Pentecost is not only about the commemoration of an historical event, but represents a celebration of a present reality: the presence of the Holy Spirit in the Church. The Apostles are seated in a semicircle which denotes harmony and unity. Another semicircle is seen at the top of the icon where rays of light are shining down upon the gathering, symbolic of the descent of the Holy Spirit.
References: Brittish Museum, Museum Number 2011,8033.9 for a similar much smaller 9.13 inch high example dated to the early 18th century, Greek, probably Mount Athos
Condition: Very good condition commensurate with age, professional restoration.
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Dimensions:Height: 22.75 in (57.79 cm)Width: 15.75 in (40.01 cm)Depth: 0.75 in (1.91 cm)
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Materials and Techniques:WoodHand-Painted
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Place of Origin:Greece
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Period:18th Century
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Date of Manufacture:18th Century
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Condition:GoodRefinished. Wear consistent with age and use. This icon has been professionally restored.
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Seller Location:New York, NY
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Reference Number:Seller: LU5828233613812
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