SAINT ALEXANDER OF CONSTANTINOPLE - Lot 68

SAINT ALEXANDER OF CONSTANTINOPLE Albania, c.1800 (last quarter of 18th century) Tempera on early panel, possibly 17th century, partially gilded with leaf, two dedications on the back, the first (first two-thirds) dating from the panel or polychrome, the second (last third) 19th century (?) contemporary with the metal halo added as an ex-voto. Saint Alexander was the first bishop of Constantinople, along with Saint Metrophanes, whose vicar he was until his death in 337. Highly involved in debates with pagan philosophers, notably in the Arian controversy, he was present at the Council of Nicea I (325), the first ecumenical council in the history of Christianity. He is depicted frontally, in episcopal garb (omophorion and mitre), holding the Gospels and blessing, flanked by the two stratelate saints Dimitri of Thessalonica on the left, and Saint George on the right. The composition is dominated by the Archangel Michael, arms outstretched in patronage and protection. The icon is richly painted, combining gilding, chrysography, finely engraved vegetal decoration on the bishop's vestments and painted on the stratelates' breastplates. The marked tendency towards a baroque, ornamental style, a certain linearity and the use of brown earths coupled with a palette of bright colors link it to the Korçë School in southern Albania (Epirus, at the time the Ottoman Empire). Very good structural condition, the panel is sound, with two slight vertical cracks in the upper and lower central part, the original gilding on the border frame remains covered with a layer of bronzine, presence of a filling in the left corner and in the center of the lower border (burn) very oxidized varnish, minor and diffuse wear and missing pictorial matter. 28.5 x 40 cm Expert: LYDIA MANIC Icons - Appraisals - Restorations 14 rue J.J Rousseau 75001 Paris