Icon - John the Baptist - Wood

A fascinating Russian-style icon depicting Saint John the Baptist in a theology-rich and less common iconography. The saint, depicted with wings spread in the classic form of the “Angel of the Desert,” holds between his hands a cup containing the Christ Child, an Eucharistic symbol alluding to Christ’s sacrifice and his role as the Lamb of God. In the hand there is a scroll with sacred inscription, a reference to his prophetic function. The golden background helps create a strong luminosity and spiritual depth, making the work particularly evocative.

Crafted on a rigid support according to iconographic models of the Byzantine-Russian tradition, with a gold background.
Good overall condition, with slight signs of age consistent with its period.

Dimensions:
With frame: 44 x 39 cm
Icon: 27 x 22 cm

Expert note:

This icon stands out for the presence of the Christ Child in the cup, a less common iconographic detail compared to the more widespread representation of the saint’s head. This variant underscores the direct link between Saint John the Baptist and the Eucharistic mystery, making the work particularly interesting both symbolically and from a collecting standpoint.

The decorative quality, together with the gold background and fidelity to traditional models, makes it an ideal object for collectors of Orthodox sacred art and for those seeking a striking visual element.