World Treasures: Important Russian, Asian, European & American Works
November 19th & 20th, 2013
auction closed
Day One - Lots 1-490G
Day Two - Lots 491-936


 
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LOT 250A
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Lot 250A
A RARE CARPATHIAN OR HUTSUL CARVED WOOD EIGHT-SIDED BLESSING CROSS, PROBABLY YASINIA CIRCA 1850. The thick wooden cross carved on both sides from a single piece of wood. The front with the crucified Christ at center flanked by two winged cherubs and beneath the All-Seeing-Eye of God and flanked probably by figures of the “Good Thief” and the “Bad Thief”. Below the feet of Christ are carved relief representations of two crossed bones as well the skull of Adam. Further down still within a rectangular shaped horizontal carved recess are three bishop saints most likely depicting the Three Hierarchs above a small square recess carved with an altar. At center on the verso is a low relief carved figure of the Mother of God with starburst shaped halo and holding her mantle or veil (Pokrov-Russian) in her outstretched arms between two winged cherubs. Above and below the Virgin are carved rectangular and horizontal recesses, the top with carved initials on either end and both with repeating patterns. Traces of polychroming and rich even overall patina. Height 13.75 inches x 4.5 inches (35 x 11.5 cm).
Estimate:  $600 - 800  
Price Realized: $1,062.50


The Hutsuls are an ethno-cultural group who for centuries has inhabited the Carpathian Mountains, mainly in Ukraine and in the northern extremity of Romania. Hutsuls regard themselves as being part of the broader Rusyn ethnic minority and/or as Ukrainian highlanders. A large part of Carpathian Rus' is wooded. The chief occupation of the Hutsuls, besides sheep-breeding, is based on primarily on forestry, subsequently for centuries the axe has been the emblem of the Hutsuls and the subject of many folk songs. Wood carving has been a time honored trade of the Hutsuls. From ornately and ornamentally carved everyday objects to their distinct wooden churches, icons and religious items such as the offered lot.



Comparison:
For a related cross see: Phillip Ostapchuk, "Folk Art of Carpatho-Ukraine" Toronto, 1957 which illustrates a similar cross dated to the mid-18th century and attributed to the village of Yasinia.
All items are sold “AS IS” and there will be no returns based on condition. The items sold are often of considerable age and will exhibit wear, usage and damage often not listed in the catalog entry. The absence of condition remarks in the catalog entry DOES NOT mean the item is in perfect condition. Prospective buyers are in ALL CASES responsible for determining the physical condition of lots. No employee or agent of Jackson's International Auctioneers and Appraisers is authorized to make on our behalf or on that of the consignor any representation or warranty, oral or written, with respect to any property. Therefore, if a prospective bidder has not examined the property to their satisfaction before the sale, or his/her agent has not inspected the property, Jackson's recommends that they not bid on the property. All dimensions are approximate. The condition of frames is not guaranteed.