Lot 346
A RUSSIAN ICON OF SOPHIA WISDOM OF GOD, 19TH CENTURY. This subject is often classified as a Deisis variant. It depicts Sophia, Wisdom of God, an aspect of Christ before the creation, in Eternity-'I was set up from everlasting, from the beginning, or ever the earth was' (Proverbs 8:23). In the type shown, commonly called the 'Novgorod' form, Sophia, a winged angelic figure with a flame-red face, is seated on a throne set on seven pillars ('Wisdom hath builded her house, she hath hewn out her seven pillars' – Proverbs 9:1). Above her is Christ in his usual form; still higher, the heavens with angels, and above them is God the Father. The table set in the center is an altar called the 'throne' in iconography, because in an Orthodox church the altar is considered the throne of Christ. The 'throne' has implications of the Last Judgment, because the 'Preparation of the Throne' (Greek Hetimasia) signifies that the time of Judgment is near. Above the table is a dove symbolizing the Holy Spirit. At Wisdom’s right hand stands Mary, and Christ Immanuel can be seen on her breast. On the other side of Wisdom is John the Forerunner holding a scroll which begins, 'I saw and witnessed concerning him,…' (John 1:29). The arched kovcheg with later gilt decoration and the borders and gilt background refreshened. 15.3 inches x 13 inches (39cm x 33cm).
Estimate:  $800 - 1,200   € 600 - 900

Price Realized: $2,280.00