This icon is unique. It is the type of icon produced at the end of the century in the Tsar’s icon workshop. These icons are noted for their exceptional attention to detail. They are often referred to as “magnifying glass” icons, for to appreciate the minute detail one is almost required to use a magnifying glass. Each hair on each head of each figure is individually painted, often with a single-hair brush. The work is excruciating on the painter’s eyes. Consequently these icons took much longer to produce than others. This example depicts the Smolensk-Hodigitria Mother of God icon being supported by two angels at top center. Below are three saints: Samon, Guriy, and Aviv. On the left is Saint Samon. He holds a cross, a symbol of his martyrdom. In the center is Guriy depicted as an older man with a pointed beard. On the right is Aviv who is dressed like a Deacon and carries a censor. Samon and Guriy were martyred first, at Edessa in Syria. Later, Aviv, deacon at Edessa, was also martyred and was buried with Samon and Guriy (early 4th century). These three saints are often found together on icons. They were popular with married couples, because they were believed to watch over faithfulness in marriage. The left border depicts the Guardian Angel (top) and the Holy Martyr Claudius (bottom). The right border displays St. Nicholas (top), and “The Holy Righteous Glafira the Maiden” (bottom). To the side of the icon is its silver-gilt repoussé and chased riza. It is hallmarked Moscow and dated 1886, and with the mark of silversmith Ivan Gregorev.
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