Antique Orthodox Icon of the Crucifixion with Saints Constantine and Helena | 18th–19th Century
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: Eastern Europe / Russia (Orthodox Tradition)
Material: Tempera on wood panel with gesso ground
Period: Circa 18th–19th Century
Description
A finely painted Orthodox icon depicting a theological composition centered on the Cross. The upper register presents Christ enthroned with an open Gospel, flanked by the Virgin Mary and St. John the Baptist in a Deësis arrangement. Below, Saints Constantine and Helena, richly robed and crowned, stand in reverence on either side of the True Cross. This dual-register design reflects the Orthodox veneration of both the Passion and the triumph of Christianity under Constantine.
Features
- Painted in tempera with gilt background on wooden panel
- Iconographic Deësis composition with Christ, Virgin, and John the Baptist above
- Saints Constantine and Helena depicted beneath, venerating the Cross
- Traditional inscriptions present, with partial wear from age
- Original wooden panel with back struts intact
Cultural Significance
Icons of Saints Constantine and Helena emphasize the discovery of the True Cross and the legitimization of Christianity under the first Christian emperor. This subject, combined with the Deësis, would have served both as a devotional focus and as a theological affirmation of salvation through Christ and the Cross.
Condition
Age-related surface wear, craquelure, and minor losses to paint and gesso, particularly at edges and lower section. Stable and well-preserved overall with rich colors remaining vibrant.
Dimensions (approximate)
Height: 18 in
Width: 12 in
Age
Estimated 18th–19th Century
Learn More
Explore the history and theology behind Orthodox iconography: Orthodox Icons – Symbolism & Tradition
Browse more sacred devotional art and religious artifacts in our collection: Artifacts of Worship & Ecclesiastical Devotion – Relic And Rarity
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Eastern Europe / Russia (Orthodox Tradition)
Material: Tempera on wood panel with gesso ground
Period: Circa 18th–19th Century
Description
A finely painted Orthodox icon depicting a theological composition centered on the Cross. The upper register presents Christ enthroned with an open Gospel, flanked by the Virgin Mary and St. John the Baptist in a Deësis arrangement. Below, Saints Constantine and Helena, richly robed and crowned, stand in reverence on either side of the True Cross. This dual-register design reflects the Orthodox veneration of both the Passion and the triumph of Christianity under Constantine.
Features
- Painted in tempera with gilt background on wooden panel
- Iconographic Deësis composition with Christ, Virgin, and John the Baptist above
- Saints Constantine and Helena depicted beneath, venerating the Cross
- Traditional inscriptions present, with partial wear from age
- Original wooden panel with back struts intact
Cultural Significance
Icons of Saints Constantine and Helena emphasize the discovery of the True Cross and the legitimization of Christianity under the first Christian emperor. This subject, combined with the Deësis, would have served both as a devotional focus and as a theological affirmation of salvation through Christ and the Cross.
Condition
Age-related surface wear, craquelure, and minor losses to paint and gesso, particularly at edges and lower section. Stable and well-preserved overall with rich colors remaining vibrant.
Dimensions (approximate)
Height: 18 in
Width: 12 in
Age
Estimated 18th–19th Century
Learn More
Explore the history and theology behind Orthodox iconography: Orthodox Icons – Symbolism & Tradition
Browse more sacred devotional art and religious artifacts in our collection: Artifacts of Worship & Ecclesiastical Devotion – Relic And Rarity
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