Northern Russia, late 16th century
An important Russian icon depicting St. Luke the Evangelist against an architectural background, sitting on a stool making a gesture of blessing towards the first words of his Gospel. St. Luke is dressed in bluish tunic and an ivory mantle. Tempera on wood panel with “kovcheg”. Northern Russia, late 16th century. 49.5×35.5 cm.
Luke the Evangelist is one of the Four Evangelists—the four traditionally ascribed authors of the canonical Gospels. The early church fathers ascribed to him authorship of both the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles, which would mean Luke contributed over a quarter of the text of the New Testament, more than any other author.
Originally this icon was worshipped in the iconostasis as part of the Royal Doors. Usually St. Luke is depicted below on the right wing (second tier) of the Royal Doors. These Doors, which are placed in the centre of the iconostasis, give access to the sanctuary of the church: the altar, the Holy of Holies. They act as the “Gates to Heaven”. Opening the Doors symbolises opening the Kingdom of Heaven for the faithful.
The submission of bids on this lot number requires the prior registration of a valid debit/credit card, presentation of photo ID and the payment of a deposit of 50.000 DKK on request. Registration of debit/credit card, photo ID and deposit is due no later than the 28th of November.
Please contact Bruun Rasmussen regarding this via email: bids@bruun-rasmussen.dk or tel.: +45 8818 1013.
For konditionsrapport kontakt: icons@bruun-rasmussen.dk Condition report on request. Please contact: icons@bruun-rasmussen.dk
The submission of bids on this lot number requires the prior registration of a valid debit/credit card, presentation of photo ID and the payment of a deposit of 50.000 DKK on request. Registration of debit/credit card, photo ID and deposit is due no later than Friday 23 November. Please contact Bruun Rasmussen regarding this via email: bids@bruun-rasmussen.dk or tel.: +45 8818 1013.
Russian art, 30 November 2018