Antique 19th Century Greek Orthodox Icon — Theotokos (Mother of God) with Christ Child, 950 Silver Repoussé Riza, Carved Baroque Wood Frame, 15¾" H

A rare and important 19th-century Greek Orthodox icon of exceptional scale and quality, depicting the Theotokos (Mother of God) with the Christ Child — one of the most sacred subjects in the Eastern Orthodox tradition.

At nearly 16 inches tall with a hallmarked 950 silver riza and a deeply carved Baroque hardwood surround, this is a piece of genuine museum presence — significantly larger and more elaborate than the typical devotional icon encountered on the market.

THE SILVER RIZA

The oklad (riza) is hallmarked 950 — among the highest silver grades, exceeding standard sterling (925) — confirmed by the stamp visible on the face of the silver. Executed in repoussé technique, the riza is worked with dense scrolling acanthus leaves, floral bouquets, a rope-twist border, and a concentric oval frame for the painted faces. The silver has developed a rich natural patina consistent with 19th-century age and has not been cleaned, preserving full authenticity.

THE ICON

The faces of the Virgin and Christ Child are hand-painted in the Byzantine manner. The traditional Greek inscriptions "ΜΡ ΘΥ" (Meter Theou — Mother of God) flank the Virgin's halo; Christ's monogram appears to the right. The Virgin wears a crown, identifying this as a Panagia ("All-Holy") icon — the highest form of Marian veneration in Greek Orthodoxy.

THE FRAME

The carved hardwood surround is exceptional. A deeply worked Baroque cartouche with a shell-and-scroll crown, projecting acanthus wing elements, and scalloped lower register — this level of carved frame is associated with church iconostases and chapel altars rather than domestic use. It strongly suggests this icon served a significant liturgical function in its original context.

DETAILS

— 950 silver repoussé riza, hallmarked (stamp visible in photos)

— Hand-painted faces: Virgin Mary and Christ Child in the Byzantine manner

— Greek inscriptions: ΜΡ ΘΥ (Meter Theou — Mother of God)

— Deeply carved Baroque hardwood frame: shell crown, acanthus surround, scalloped base

— Original hanging hardware to verso

— Back label: "19th Century 950 Silver Greek Icon"

— Greek Orthodox, late 19th century, circa 1850–1900

— Country of origin: Greece

DIMENSIONS

Overall (wood frame): 15¾" H × 11⅛" W × ¾" D

CONDITION

Good antique condition consistent with age and use. Silver riza with rich natural patina — unpolished and unrestored. Wood frame has losses and edge wear consistent with age and ecclesiastical use. Painted faces intact and clear.

Ships fully insured via specialty carrier. Local Boston-area pickup welcome.