Icon - Nicholas the Wonderworker - Wood

Ancient Religious Icon of Saint Nicholas – Oil on Panel with Gilding – Russian/Orthodox School

An ancient devotional icon of Saint Nicholas is offered for sale, crafted with oil on panel with fine gilding, following the traditional typology of the Russian Orthodox School. The piece features excellent pictorial definition, a luminous halo, and the presence of episcopal blessing, characteristic elements of Eastern worship.

The depiction includes two figures in the clouds: Christ (on the left) and the Mother of God (on the right), in the liturgical gesture of presenting attributes to the saint, a very well-known iconographic motif in the Orthodox tradition.

Meaning and History of the Depicted Saint

San Nicolás (4th century) is one of the most revered figures in Eastern and Western Christianity.

Bishop of Mira (Asia Minor)

Known as the protector of travelers, sailors, children, the poor, and the sick.

Central figure in Orthodox iconography, venerated for miraculous intercession and compassionate character.

His cult spread from Byzantium to Russia, the Balkans, and later to Europe.

The icon presents it in full episcopal authority.

Golden Mitra with gems

Closed Gospel in his left hand

Orthodox blessing with the right hand, a theological gesture of transmitting grace.

Technical Features

Technique: Oil on panel with natural antique craquelure

Dorado: Application of gold leaf on miter and decorations.

Titles in Cyrillic alongside the central figure.

Color palette: reds, ochres, golds, and greens with soft shadows.

Solid wood table with relics of handwritten inscriptions on the reverse side.

Condition of preservation

Uniform craquelure typical of aging, without significant structural damage.

Visible vertical crack but stable and inactive, a natural sign of wood aging.

Well-preserved pigments, with no visible modern overpainting.

Gilded in mitra and ornamentation with authentic patina.

Suitable piece for study, collection, or minimal, non-invasive restoration.

Back of the Piece

The table shows ancient handwritten inscriptions, probably linked to: dating.

Iconographic Value

The classical scheme of Christ on the left delivering the Gospel and the Mother of God on the right blessing is one of the most recognized patterns of the Russian school.

Christ confers spiritual authority.

The Virgin intercedes and confirms the ministry.

San Nicolás appears as a bridge between the divine and the human, symbolizing mercy and justice.


Aesthetic Observations

Highly attractive aged golden tone

Calm and detailed expression of the face

Bishop's vestment with fine details on the edges.

Elevated iconography, represented with solemnity.

The icon is an artistic testimony of great theological depth and Eastern devotional traditions, being a classic piece of Orthodox heritage. Its presence is dignified, solemn, and suitable for spiritual spaces or historical collections.