Pokrov icon of the Mother of God, 19th century, Russia, 10.5x7 in

Pokrov icon of the Mother of God, 19th century, Russia, 10.5x7 in.

Old Russian icon of the Pokrov: ''Protection of the Mother of God'' associated with Saint Roman the Melode.

The icon of the Pokrov is traditionally associated with one of the greatest Byzantine hymnographers, Saint Romanus the Melodist. 

According to legend, he had an unpleasant voice until the Virgin appeared to him and gave him the gift of singing. 

Unusually, the story of Romanus is depicted in the upper left part of the icon, behind the church. Here the Virgin appears at the saint's bedside, ordering him to swallow a scroll. 

Obeying this request, Romanus miraculously gained the gift of singing and a talent for composing, which he used to praise the Virgin throughout his life. 

The lower part of the icon features numerous heads and figures of the faithful, while the upper part is filled with representations of saints and angels.

Delivered elegantly in a blue velvet case and accompanied by an expert assessment.

Origin: Moscow, Russia.

Technique: egg tempera.

Materials: wood, levkas.

Actual measurements: 10.5x7.3 in.

Era: early 19th century.