A Rare Travelling Devotional Orthodox Plaque Depicting St John the Baptist

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A Rare Travelling Devotional Orthodox Plaque Depicting St John the Baptist

Finch & Co

Period 15th / 16th Century

Origin Russia

Medium walrus ivory

Dimension 8 x 5 cm (3¹/₈ x 2 inches)

A Rare Travelling Devotional Orthodox Plaque Depicting St John the Baptist Holding His Own Head
Walrus Ivory
Aged patina and colour, aged fissures consistent with age and use
Old label to the reverse reading: ‘….
Novgorod, Russia
15th / 16th Century

Size: 8cm high, 5cm wide - 3 ins high, 2 ins wide

Provenance:
Ex Private USA collection, formed in the 1960’s / 70’s
Ex Private Irish collection

Period: 15th / 16th Century

Origin: Russia

Medium: walrus ivory

Dimension: 8 x 5 cm (3¹/₈ x 2 inches)

Provenance: Ex Private USA collection, formed in the 1960’s / 70’s
Ex Private Irish collection

Literature: The Cathedral of St Sophia stands as the oldest Orthodox Church in Russia, having been constructed between 1045 and 1052. Notably, St Sophia Cathedral was the pioneering church in Slavic lands to incorporate local characteristics that diverged from the Byzantine style prevalent in the Eastern Church. These Byzantine features and style are distinctly evident within the intricately carved panel. Historically, Novgorod served as a crucial juncture on the ancient trade route connecting the Varangians to the Greeks.

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