Bidspirit auction | 18TH C. RUSSIAN KOVCHEG ICON

18TH C. RUSSIAN KOVCHEG ICON OF ST. NICHOLAS - An 18th-century Russian Orthodox icon depicting Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker in a bust-length composition with a gilded halo. The artwork is painted on a substantial wood panel constructed with a shallow recessed central area (kovcheg) and old inset splines. The central figure is executed with a contemplative gaze and monumental scale, reflecting traditional Russian icon modeling. Christ and the Mother of God are represented in small medallions flanking the saint's shoulders, while additional selected saints are depicted full-length on the side borders. The reverse is unfinished, showing significant inactive woodworm channels and a later-added wire hanging loop. antique religious art, orthodox relic, tempera painting, ecclesiastical decor, eastern christian, holy artifact, provincial artwork. Dimensions 14 x 11 3/4 in. (35.5 x 29.8 cm) Condition Overall good antique condition exhibiting age-related wear, surface abrasions, and visible retouching to the painted areas. The panel displays heavy natural craquelure and signs of old restoration. The reverse exhibits extensive inactive woodworm and retains its original inset splines. Condition is consistent with age and previous conservation.