Lot 530
**Originally Listed At $250**
Eastern Europe, Russia, Russian Orthodox, ca. 18th to 19th century CE. A cast brass Russian Orthodox pendant icon depicting the bust of the Virgin Mary in low relief, shown frontally with a solemn, contemplative expression and enveloped in a hooded maphorion rendered with deeply incised, linear folds. The compact arched form is surmounted by an integral suspension loop, indicating its intended use as a wearable devotional object. The Virgin is identified by her traditional Greek inscription, with two letters placed on either side of her head reading MP and THU, an abbreviated form of Meter Theou, meaning "Mother of God." This formula is standard in Orthodox iconography and underscores Marys theological role as Theotokos, the bearer of Christ. Her facial features are softly modeled, with large almond-shaped eyes and a restrained, hieratic presence characteristic of Russian icon pendants produced for personal devotion. Size: 1.3" W x 2" H (3.3 cm x 5.1 cm)
The reverse is plain, bearing the natural wear and mottled green and brown patina expected of long-used brass devotional objects. Such pendants were commonly worn by clergy, pilgrims, and lay believers alike, serving both as declarations of faith and as protective talismans believed to confer spiritual intercession.
Modest in scale yet rich in symbolic meaning, this pendant reflects the enduring Orthodox tradition of portable iconography and the widespread production of cast metal icons in Russia during the 18th and 19th centuries. Its worn surface and softened details speak to sustained handling and devotional use over generations, lending the object an intimate and authentic presence.
Provenance: private Thousand Oaks, California, USA collection, acquired 1970s to 2000s
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#197233
- Condition: Weathering and surface wear as shown. Otherwise, wearable and very nice with liberal remaining detail and rich patina.
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| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |