A LARGE AND IMPRESSIVE NEO-BYZANTINE GILT BRONZE ALTAR TRIPTYCH, AUSTRIAN, 19TH CENTURY. The large and imposing structure resting on a stepped base with extending borders, and above, the central section projecting outward and with large horizontal panel below applied with gilt bronze coiled cross form and in the corners, foliates. Above, an arched reserve with elaborate openworked strapwork and scrolling foliage containing an oil on wood icon of the Virgin and Child. The left side similarly decorated and displaying a full-length icon of St. Gregory, and on the right, St. Helena by Carl Rahl (Austrian 1812-1865). Central panel signed on verso. Height 35.25 inches (90 cm), width 28.75 inches (73 cm). Measurements not including the footed, raised rectangular base which measures 42 inches in width (106.6 cm), 18.25 inches in depth (46.3 cm) and 2 inches in height (5 cm). Not illustrated.

Rahl worked with Danish-Austrian architect Theophil Freiherr Von Hansen (1813-1891), who had spent time in Greece and taken up an interest in Byzantine art, and was commissioned in the rebuilding of Vienna's Fleischmarkt Greek church in the Neo-Byzantine style. He was also employed by Greek Philanthropist Simon Sinas on the same project and therefore was an active participant of the propagation of the Neo-Byzantine style as reflected in the offered lot.