Ancient Orthodox icon of Saint Athanasius of Alexandria - 18ᵉ century

Superb hand-painted Orthodox icon depicting Saint Athanasius of Alexandria, Patriarch and Doctor of the Church, made in the 18ᵉ century. This sacred work is executed on a thick board of old wood, with a gilded leaf background, in the Byzantine iconographic tradition.
Inscriptions and authenticity
The icon features inscriptions in ancient Greek:

Ο ΑΓΙΟΣ ΑΘΑΝΑΣΙΟΣ (Ho Hagios Athanasios) - "Saint Athanasius"
Ο ΠΑΤΡΙΑΡΧΗΣ ΑΛΕΞΑΝΔΡΕΙΑΣ (Ho Patriarchēs Alexandreias) - "The Patriarch of Alexandria"

These elements confirm that this is indeed Saint Athanasius of Alexandria, one of the most important Fathers of the Church, known for his defense of Christianity in the face of Arianism.
Artistic and graphic features
The icon illustrates the refined graphics characteristic of Orthodox sacred art:

The saint's face is imbued with wisdom and gravity, with large, expressive eyes and an intense gaze, symbolizing his unshakeable faith.
The long, finely painted gray beard accentuates his venerable character.
The hands are precisely detailed: one is raised in blessing, with the fingers arranged according to Orthodox tradition (symbolizing Christ's dual nature, divine and human), while the other holds a richly decorated book of the Gospels.
The liturgical vestments are adorned with sophisticated geometric motifs, in a palette of vivid colors with subtle contrasts.
The gold-leaf background enhances the majesty of the whole, giving the icon a strong spiritual presence.

Technical information and condition

Period: 18ᵉ century
Origin : Probably Russian or Balkan
Dimensions : 30 cm x 22 cm (11.8 x 8.7 inches)
Technique : Tempera on wood with gilding
Condition : Beautiful patina of age with visible cracks and chips, testifying to its age and authenticity. The wood shows traces of use and old, stabilized insect galleries.

A rare and spiritual object
This icon, imbued with spirituality and history, is a unique piece, perfect for collectors of sacred art or lovers of ancient liturgical objects. It bears witness to the exceptional skill of Orthodox iconographers of the 18ᵉ century and is a work of great historical and artistic value.

Ref: STUFP2AANY