Eastern Europe, Russia, ca. 19th century CE. The Virgin of the Sweet Kiss is a subject that derives from a prototype purportedly painted by Saint Luke at Ephesus, and believed to be the first icon depicting the Virgin Mary that Prince Vladimir brought to Kiev in 988. This superb painting of the Mother of God is fitted with an impressive silver oklad that adds a sculptural aspect to the robes and halos of the Virgin and Child as well as those of the surrounding saints, in addition to providing a breathtaking floral and 'beaded' border. The oklad has hallmarks including the Kokoshnik mark comprised of a helmeted woman in profile with the initial A.P. and 84 indicating sterling silver. There is another stamp that appears to read "ERM". Size: 12" W x 14" H (30.5 cm x 35.6 cm)

Characteristic of a Mother of God icon, this piece presents the intensely expressive visages of Mary and baby Jesus, their pristine oval faces juxtaposed closely as the Child presses his cheek against his mother’s, the Virgin’s protective, maternal gaze revealing a bittersweet awareness of her son’s fate, returned by Jesus’ sweet, trusting innocence. Their playful hand gestures complements the emotional aspect of this composition.

The icon is fitted with a stunning silver oklad, adding a three-dimensional quality to the image - the haloes elaborately cut, engraved, and detailed in repousse, their cloaks seemingly of billowing fabrics with cascading folds, the Virgin's detailed with a floral pattern and bordered with stylized geometric motifs and fringe over the arm. Two star-like ornaments, each comprised of seven cut glass inlays, adorn the Virgin's habit. The figures occupying the borders include bishop Timothy (top left), the martyr Alexandra (bottom left), the martyr Julitta (top right), and the nun Pelagia (bottom right). The margin of the frame is further adorned in chaise and repousse with finely executed floral elements, a beaded interior border and an outer border comprised of alternating twisted and feather-like patterns.

The oklad (also spelled oclad) or riza, sometimes referred to as a revetment in English, is a metal cover that not only protects the icon, but also serves to honor or venerate the figure(s) depicted on the icon. Oklads are usually adorned with repousse work and pierced to reveal elements of the underlying painting.

Provenance: ex-Francis & Lilly Robicsek collection, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA

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#119470

Painted imagery shows nice craquelure and some darkening commensurate with age. Some expected bending and tarnish to silver oklad. Back slats still present beneath the maroon velvet backing.