A RUSSIAN ICON OF THE FIERY ASCENT OF THE PROPHET ELIJAH IN A SILVER OKLAD, 19TH CENTURY, scenes from the life of Prophet Elijah surround a central figure of the Prophet being fed by a raven in the desert, including: an angel waking Elijah; the Prophet and his disciple, Elisha, crossing the Jordan; Elijah ascending to heaven in a fiery four horse-drawn chariot while dropping his cloak to Elisha. The ornate silver oklad decorated in repousse, with scrolling, fruit-bearing ivy in the borders, the corners with elaborate rocailles. Egg tempera, gold leaf and gesso on wood panel. Two insert splints on the back. 35.5 x 31 cm (14 x 12 1/4 in.), illegible town mark, partially legible maker`s mark A, 84 standard.

PROVENANCE
Collection of Bernard Winters, Armonk, New York

Bernard J. Winters was a philanthropist and art collector who was captivated by Russian icons. Over a fifty-year period, he worked closely with Sotheby`s, Christie`s, and private collectors to cultivate his collection. His monumental icons, as well as those purchased from Natalie Hays Hammond, daughter of John Hays Hammond, diplomat, were some of his favored items.