Icon - John the Baptist - Wood

Very rare Russian icon, depicting Saint John the Baptist holding in one hand a chalice containing the Child Jesus – the Lamb. In his right hand he holds a scroll with an inscription in Slavic that reads: 'Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.' The background is gold leaf with punch-decorated floral motifs around the halo. The refinement of the workmanship gives certainty that it is a workshop piece from Moscow. Technique: egg tempera on a ground prepared with plaster and glue. Two small defects on the base band. 45 x 38 cm.