A FOUR-PART ICON 'CRUCIFIXION OF CHRIST', 'THE KAZANSKAYA MOTHER OF GOD', 'ARCHANGEL MICHAEL', 'SAINT NICHOLAS' AND S'AINT GEORGE' Kholuy (Ivanovo region, Russia), second half of the 19th century

tempera, levkas on wood panel 37.5 x 31 cm Condition: without restoration The multi-part icon, composed of several prayer images, was one of the most popular options for home worship. Believers were attracted by the possibility of placing several honoured saints on the same icon, thus creating a personal and family pantheon of intercession and patronage