Russia, egg tempera on chalk ground, painted on wooden panel. 19th Century Oklad in silver 84 Zolotnik, Moscow stamp Exquisite and unique, painstankly elaborated, embroidery in fine silver thread and Mother of Pearl pearls. The depiction of Saint Nicholas is of outstanding quality which speaks wonders about the cleric artist who patiently crafted it in such detail. Very special. A rare collector item. Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker: He was a historic 4th-century Saint and the Greek Bishop of Myra. Because of the many miracles attributed to his intercession, he is also known as Nicholas the Wonderworker. He is the patron Saint of Russia and its most famous icon. Also, he had a reputation for secret gift-giving, such as putting coins in the shoes of those who left them out for him, and thus became the model for Santa Claus. His reputation evolved among the faithful, as was common for early Christian saints. His feast day is 6 December. Measurements 18x12 cm. Condition: In good condition,painting shows signs of craquelure as expected. Scractches present and chips on the edges. Sign of a burning candle mark on the top left. Professionally packed and shipped with upmost care. This increases the shipping cost slightly but it reassures that it arrives without damages.