Lot 145a, Auction 4/12/2026: Romanian Silver Oklad Icon, Resurrection w/ Donor Names

$390.00

In stock

Eastern Europe, Romania, Orthodox Christian, ca. late 19th to early 20th century CE. A radiant vision of the risen Christ rendered in repousse silver, this Romanian Orthodox icon depicts the Resurrection with powerful devotional force and exceptional craftsmanship. Christ emerges triumphantly from a stylized tomb, his body raised in contrapposto as he ascends on swirling clouds. In his left hand, he grasps a processional cross and banner, symbol of victory over death. His right arm lifts upward in a gesture of divine proclamation. The folds of his garment swirl with energy, drawn tightly across his ribs and shoulders in high relief. Framing the scene below are two attendant figures: at left, a reverent angel in flowing robes gestures in prayerful witness; at right, a Roman soldier recoils in astonishment, his posture animated with surprise and dread. Size: 1″ L x 8.75″ W x 11.5″ H (2.5 cm x 22.2 cm x 29.2 cm)

The sarcophagus at the center is draped with a finely chased cloth, and engraved upon its surface is a workshop hallmark reading “AD 12” – likely a silversmith’s internal code rather than a date. The upper inscription, “Sf. Invierea Domnului,” translates as “Holy Resurrection of the Lord,” clearly identifying the sacred theme. The silver oklad (or riza) is finely bordered with foliate scrollwork and architectural flourishes at the corners, typical of late 19th to early 20th century Romanian Orthodox metalwork. The chased silver is pierced to reveal the painted icon beneath, with visible openings for the faces and hands – a traditional Eastern Orthodox technique that honors both the painted image and its precious covering.

At the lower border, an engraved list of names in Romanian script memorializes the donors or patrons: M. Costandinescu, G. Dobriceanu, N. Lazarescu, H. Alexandrescu – a poignant testament to communal piety and ecclesiastical patronage. The verso features a dark wood panel reinforced with iron straps, displaying age and wear consistent with Orthodox devotional icons from the late 19th century. A compelling synthesis of religious devotion, national craftsmanship, and personal legacy, this icon would have originally adorned a church interior, chapel, or home altar, embodying the promise of resurrection and spiritual triumph.

Condition: Old repairs to verso with iron bracing for support and losses to some of the original nails on the periphery, as well as painted detail. Surface wear commensurate with age, but otherwise, very nice presentation with good remaining repousse detail and rich patina to wood.

Provenance: private Arlington, Virginia, USA collection; ex-Hess Fine Auctions, Saint Petersburg, Florida, USA

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