Kazan Mother of God (Kazanskaya)
Religious Icon with Riza (Oklad) • Unknown Russian workshop; likely produced in an icon-painting center such as Moscow or Mstyora
Style & Movement
Russian Orthodox Iconography with Academic influence (Westernizing style in facial features)
Medium & Technique
Oil or tempera on wood panel, covered with a repoussé and chased brass or silver-plated metal cover (riza)
Creation Period
Late 19th to early 20th century (Late Imperial Russian period)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 25 x 31 cm (standard cabinet icon size); vertical portrait orientation
Subject Description
Our Lady of Kazan, a hodegetria variant where the Virgin Mary is depicted bust-length with the Christ Child standing to her left. The riza features a decorative halo and stylized drapery.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good/Fair - The riza shows significant tarnishing and surface oxidation. The painted faces appear darkened beneath old varnish.
Estimated Market Value
$400 - $800 USD
Auction Estimate
$300 - $600 USD
Provenance History
Likely a private devotional object from a Russian household, later entering the Western market; no visible export stamps or hallmarking in the image.
Art Historical Significance
A classic example of late-period mass-produced devotional art in Tsarist Russia, reflecting the transition from traditional Byzantine styles to more naturalist, sentimental Western painting styles.
Notable Features
The riza features a distinctively pierced scalloped halo pattern and finely detailed chasing on the garments to simulate textile textures.
Condition Issues
Surface oxidation on metal, potential abrasions to the underlying painted surface, presence of dirt and grime, and a non-original modern wooden frame.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional cleaning of the metal riza, stabilization of the wood panel, and replacement of the modern frame with a traditional Kiot (glass case).