Russia, Imperial. An Icon of Christ and the Theotokos, with Silver Riza, c. 1850

A well-preserved icon depicting Christ and the Theotokos. Presented on a gessoed wooden board, the image consists of hand-painted faces and hands of the former. Riveted to the  board is a hand-hammered silvered brass riza featuring the robes of Christ and Mary executed in detail, complete with wide halos. Mary’s right hand gestures toward Christ, directing the viewer to the object of veneration. A suspension loop emanates from the top edge, while the riza is double-stamped with an 84 zolotniki mark, indicating 875 silver content, and hallmark of “ПЕ”. The icon measures 9 cm (w) x 11 cm (h). Two of the rivets have been driven into the board, resulting in some loosening of the riza, while a gap at the six o’clock position exposes some of the underlying board. This small, mid-19th century example remains in a better than very fine condition.