A silver-gilt icon of the Akhtirskaya Mother of God, Sazikov, Moscow, 1844 , A silver-gilt icon of the Akhtirskaya Mother of God, Sazikov, Moscow, 1844

A silver-gilt icon of the Akhtirskaya Mother of God, Sazikov, Moscow, 1844

the virgin depicted in prayer besides Christ on the Cross on a repoussé textured rock mounted with a silver skull and cross bones, her robes repoussé and engraved with foliate scrolls and mounted with silver filigree cuffs and neckline, the border of the oklad chased with foliate scrolls in rococo taste and a trellis pattern at the centre of each side of the border, the sunburst halo applied, the velvet reverse bearing the inscription 'to the Christ loving and esteemed citizen Mikhail Mikhailovich Bashkin, and to his family as a blessing, [Smaragd] Archbishop of Astrakhan, 10 May 1843, Astrakhan', struck with maker's mark and the Imperial Warrant, 84 standard
32 by 26.7cm; 12½by 10½in.

Condition Report:
Excellent condition overall

"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."