Title / Designation: Byzantine Icon “Archangels Michael and Gabriel” – Egg Tempera on Wood, Gilding – Russia/Greece/Bulgaria, 18th/19th Century (ca. 1800) Origin: Russia, Greece, or Bulgaria, between 1780–1820. The icon follows the classical Orthodox pictorial tradition and unites the characteristic features of the Byzantine school as preserved in these regions for centuries. Technique / Materials: • Egg tempera on a carefully primed, multi-layered wooden panel • Gold leaf for halos and decorative ornaments • Strong color palette with dominant red, blue, and gold tones • Reverse side with typical crossbars and a smooth wooden surface Dimensions (estimated): • Height: approx. 30 cm • Width: approx. 22.5 cm • Thickness: approx. 2.3 cm Description: On the left, Archangel Michael appears as the heavenly commander with a drawn sword, symbol of his victory over evil. On the right, Archangel Gabriel, the messenger of God, holds a sphere (symbol of the world or a divine message) and a staff of authority. Both angels are depicted in strict frontal pose, with large feathered wings and radiant gilded halos. The calm, refined facial features and the harmonious color scheme reflect the iconography of the Orthodox Church in Russia, Greece, and Bulgaria. Classification: This icon served as an object of devotion in household altars or monasteries. The combined depiction of Archangels Michael and Gabriel symbolizes protection, divine guidance, and heavenly assistance. Style and technique suggest a creation around 1800, in one of the major Orthodox art centers of the aforementioned regions. Condition: • Authentic signs of age and devotional use • Pronounced craquelure and some areas of paint loss • Gilding rubbed in places, patina untouched • Wood slightly warped but stable Provenance: Private collection; likely Russia, Greece, or Bulgaria, 18th/19th century. Sales-relevant Note: Rare, early-dated Orthodox icon of high spiritual and art-historical significance. Particularly valuable for collectors of Byzantine sacred art and admirers of Eastern European icon painting. Keywords: Byzantine icon, Russia, Greece, Bulgaria, 18th–19th century, Archangel Michael, Archangel Gabriel, Orthodox art, egg tempera, gilded, holy image, sacred art, antique icons.