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Large Morozov Antique Russian Silver Filigree Icon of Saint John the Theologian

Name: Large Morozov Antique Russian Silver Filigree Icon of Saint John the Theologian
Brand: Morozov
Price: 35000 USD
Availability: InStock

About the Item

A fine and rare silver filigree icon of Saint John the Theologian in Silence. Signed Morozov, 1887 Workmaster: Vassily Kangin 32..7cm by 29cm Ivan Morozov established his eponymous firm specializing in fine jewelry and luxurious silver objects in 1849 in St. Petersburg. He was awarded the Imperial Warrant shortly thereafter and became an important purveyor to the Russian court, his main rival being none other than Carl Faberge. Morozov died 1889, but the firm continued in operation until 1917, a testament to it's reputation as one of the top silver and jewelry establishments in Imperial Russia. Works by Morozov are in the permanent collections of the State Historical Museum, Moscow and numerous museums and private collections worldwide. The reticulated and filigree silver oklad by Morozov of this icon is a masterwork. The border framework composed of finely chased floral and foliate ornamentation with the haloes of Saint John and the Angel complementing the composition. Vestments are executed in the exceptionally detailed silver filigree technique highlighted by granulation, a complex feat where minute silver orbs are individually placed on the filigree work to denote jewels. The Book of Gospel is likewise decorated in the same jeweled technique. The late nineteenth century saw a resurgence in interest towards traditional Russian themes and techniques culminating in the famed Pan Slavic Style. Filigree and granulation work such as in the present example would have been a showcase of artistry and virtuosity by a talented Workmaster. The icon is fully rendered, tempera on wooden panel, painted in rich jewel tones. Saint John is thoughtfully depicted in a spiritual manner with a beautifully detailed ornate Book of Gospel in hand. Saint John the Theologian in Silence serves as inspiration and model of Faith and Prayer. He was the only Apostle not to have been martyred and went on to live some seventy years beyond Christ's death, Resurrection and Ascension to Heaven. He was the author of the Fourth Gospel and, as witness to the Divine Revelation, he is seen as one at the pinnacle of spiritual heights and heavenly wisdom. The icon depicts Saint John holding the Gospel, an angel at his shoulder whispering the Gospel into John's ear. His eyes are cast down in contemplation and his hand is raised to his mouth, making the sign of the cross to guard against saying something from his imagination. The wisdom of thinking before you speak comes to mind. Condition: Very good, commensurate with age, lovely craquelure, minor wear to the sides and back. The oklad is of very heavy silver, filigree portions in superb shape, some slight waviness to the sides and minor splits. The center of the halo may have contained a jewel which is no longer present. The 8th of May is a Feast Day dedicated to Saint John Rus:Иоанна Богослова “в молчании” Marks: Morozov with the Imperial Warrant, BK- Cyrillic initials for Vassily Kangin, 1887, 84 for Russian silver, Saint Petersburg References: Sotheby's New York, November 2, 2009, lot 159, Russian Icon of the Miracle of Archangel Michael, silver oklad by Morozov Christie's 15 April 2012, lot 106, Resurrection, oklad by Morozov Sotheby's, June 9th, 2021, lot 238, a Silver Gilt and Glass Kovsh attributed to Morozov by Vassily Kangin

Creator:

Morozov

Metal:

Silver

Dimensions:

Height: 12.94 in (328.68 mm)Width: 11.5 in (292.1 mm)

Style:

Russian Empire

Place of Origin:

Russia

Period:

19th Century