The forefathers in paradise
Provenance
Russia/ Petersburg School of Painting
Age
18th century Century
Size
28.5 cm x 22.0 cm
Previous owner
Rhenish private collection
Description
The forefathers in paradise:
Old collector’s icons for sale and purchase in Munich and Zurich
The biblical theme “The Forefathers in Paradise” is a central motif that emphasizes the close connection between the Old Testament patriarchs and humanity. The forefathers Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, who are revered as the progenitors of faith, play a key role in the history of God’s people. Their representation in paradise symbolizes the fulfilment of divine promises and the blessing that passes to mankind through their offspring.
Rare old icons for sale and purchase in Munich and Cologne
The icon:
Rare old original icons for sale and to buy in Munich and Düsseldorf
An impressive work of art that takes up this theme, this icon is not only an important testimony to religious art, but also a valuable collector’s item. The icon is made on a single hardwood panel, the stability of which is ensured by two opposing back sponkis. The artistic egg tempera painting on a chalk ground lends the work a luminous intensity of color and remarkable depth, while the silver basma, a fine metal overlay, adorns the edge of the picture field and reflects the divine light.
The three holy forefathers Abraham, Isaac and Jacob are depicted in full form in the slightly recessed field of the icon. They sit on a band of clouds that symbolizes their elevation and their place in paradise. Behind them, the paradisiacal landscape opens up, representing the final resting place of the faithful. Each of the forefathers holds three children on his lap, symbolizing humanity and representing the divine promise of offspring and blessing.
God the Father is enthroned above the saints in a cloud bank, his hand spread out in blessing over the scene. This depiction emphasizes the divine care and blessing that is passed on to all of humanity through the forefathers.
Selling and buying old icons in Düsseldorf and Cologne
The silver mount on the edge of the icon bears Grigory Lusinov’s master mark and the date 1797. The icon is in a good state of preservation and is a rare collector’s item that is not only of religious but also of art-historical significance. It offers a fascinating insight into the spiritual heritage and cultural significance of the Christian faith in the 18th century.
A rare collector’s item!