Mother of God “Tikhvinskaya” Icon – Palekh School, 1820, Gilded & Enamel Detail

When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.

Mother of God “Tikhvinskaya” Icon – Palekh School, 1820, Gilded & Enamel Detail:
$24499.99

This outstandingPalekh School icon of the Mother of God “Tikhvinskaya”, painted around1820, represents one of the finest achievements of early 19th-century Russian iconography. TheTikhvin Mother of Godis among the most venerated images in the Orthodox Church, believed to have miraculously appeared near the town of Tikhvin in the 14th century, bringing protection and healing wherever it was honored.

In this exquisite depiction, the Virgin tenderly supports the Christ Child on her left arm, while He raises His hand in blessing, holding a scroll of wisdom. The composition reflects both majesty and intimacy — a perfect expression of divine compassion.

Created by thePalekh School, famous for its refined brushwork and spiritual depth, this icon exhibitsexceptional artistic mastery. The surface is richly decorated with adeeply carved gilded background, symbolizing heavenly light, and each corner featuresinset enamel ornaments, enhancing its sacred beauty. The harmonious use of color, combined with delicate gold lines and soft modeling of the faces, reveals the hand of a highly skilled master.

This is not merely an icon — it is amuseum-quality devotional masterpiece, rare in size, age, and craftsmanship.

Details

Subject:Mother of God “Tikhvinskaya” (Tikhvin Icon of the Theotokos)
Origin:Russia, Palekh School, circa 1820
Medium:Egg tempera and gold leaf on gessoed wood panel with enamel corners and carved gilded background
Dimensions:44.5 × 37.5 cm (≈17.5 × 14.8 inches)
Condition:Excellent preserved antique condition with rich patina and minor age-related craquelure

Highlights