19th C Russian Icon Pokrov Mother of God, Certified by Prof. Voordeckers

This outstanding Russian icon, dated to the 19th century and measuring 30.7 x 26.7 cm, portrays the revered theme of the Pokrov (Protection) of the Mother of God. Executed in tempera on wood with richly colored detail, it originally included a silver riza (metal cover), now lost, which would have underscored its value and prestige.
The icon depicts the miraculous vision seen by St. Andrew the Fool-for-Christ and his disciple Epiphanius in the Church of Blachernae, Constantinople, where the Mother of God was seen extending her veil over the faithful as a sign of intercession and divine protection. A full ensemble of saints, monks, and even imperial figures are present, including St. Romanos Melodos with his choir, all gathered in a solemn liturgical vision of divine guardianship.
What elevates this icon further is its accompanying certificate of authenticity, issued on May 10, 1979, by Prof. Dr. E. Voordeckers, a recognized authority in iconography and religious art, affiliated with the Nationaal Documentatiecentrum voor de Ikon (National Documentation Centre for Icons) in Ghent, Belgium. The certificate is written in English and bears an official reference number (R.793.445) and address seal from the institution.
In his signed certification, Prof. Voordeckers provides a detailed iconographic reading of the panel, linking it to both Byzantine and Slavic traditions of the Pokrov, and confirms the painting's authenticity without reservation. His analysis contextualizes the icon within the hymnographic tradition of Romanos Melodos and underscores the icon's high artistic and devotional significance.
Icons accompanied by scholarly, institutionally backed documentation are increasingly rare on the market, making this piece not only visually and spiritually powerful but also securely anchored in academic provenance.
Condition:
Very good condition. Some minor wear and aging consistent with devotional use. The silver cover noted in the certificate is no longer present, but the painted surface is stable, detailed, and vibrant. Includes the original 1979 certificate of authenticity signed by Prof. Dr. E. Voordeckers.
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