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ICON OF ST. NIPHONT

Creator(s): Unknown

Currently in storage


About this object

The half-length figure of St. Niphont is cast in relief against a plain metal ground. His head, with its short clipped beard and wrinkled forehead, is framed by a simple round halo and he wears the monastic robes of the Great Schima. He holds an unfurled scroll with the inscription "A curse on everyone who is against God's church," while the words "The Image of St. Niphont Banisher of Demons" are written on a banner behind his head. Both texts are set against blue enamel grounds. A raised border of vines with grapes and flowers surrounds the central image, enlivened by alternating patches of dark blue, green, bright blue, ochre and white enamel.

Object name:
ICON OF ST. NIPHONT
Made from:
Brass -- enamel
Made in:
Russia
Date made:
ca. 1800
Size:
11.1 × 10 cm (4 3/8 × 3 15/16 in.)

Detailed information for this item

Catalog number:
14.51
Class:
METAL
Signature marks:
INSCRIPTION on front: "OBRA PRPDBNA NIGONTA PROGONITELIA BESOV" "PROKLIAT VSIAK IZHEK [...] TSRKOV' BZHIIU I POSLEDUET RU.IA PI?"
Credit line:
Bequest of Marjorie Merriweather Post, 1973