Rare and unusual Russian icon of the XIX century.

Rare and unusual 19th century Russian icon.
"Virgin and Child".
Oklad of felt of various colours decorated with silver threads, sequins and small coloured spheres.
The fabric is in poor condition and discoloured. Needs restoration.
Measurements: 31.5 x 23 x 2 cm.
This icon is different from the rest because of its rare and unusual oklad: instead of being made of silver, brass or other materials, it has been made of cloth decorated with silver threads, sequins and small coloured spheres. It is an unusual piece, whose delicacy and finesse reflect the importance of craftsmanship in Russian culture. It depicts the Mother of God half-length, with her head slightly bent, holding the Christ Child in her right arm. This is one of the most common depictions of the Mother of God and Jesus in Orthodox iconography. With the indicative gesture, the Virgin tells the viewer that the Truth is behind the Child Jesus, and all those who will follow Him. The Child, moreover, holds in one hand the royal orb (the ball) as a symbol of his power over the world. The iconography of the Child of the Ball alludes to the universality of Christian doctrine, and consists of the representation of the Child Jesus with a sphere representing the universe, placed in his hand or under his feet. It is a Triumphant Child, Saviour of the World, and symbolises the idea of Jesus as man and saviour, lord of the whole Earth, which he redeems by his death and resurrection. It combines divine power and grace with the happy innocence and humble condition of God incarnate: the omnipotence of the Son, being a child with the orb in his hand, like a little boy with his ball.