Mixed Silver-Coloured Metal Ring Group

Painted on a wooden board with mounting slots and panels to the reverse, gessoed surface with painting of the Virgin of Kazan, head of Mary with gilded nimbus and russet-coloured veil, standing infant Jesus similarly nimbate with right hand raised in the pax gesture; gilt monograms to the upper corners and title to the lower left corner. 968 grams, 31 cm high

Fine condition.

Ex property of a London lady, part of her family's collection.

The original icon, also known as the Theotokos of Kazan, is thought to have originated in Constantinople in the 13th century before it was taken to Russia. When the Turks took over Kazan in 1438, the icon was most probably hidden to keep it safe. Ivan the Terrible liberated Kazan in 1552, and the town was destroyed by fire in 1579, after which the icon was found and brought to the Church of Saint Nicholas. It was subsequently stolen in 1904 and never found again, though there are many copies in existence.

Restrung with fish-shaped tabular beads and seed beads. 13.6 grams, 37.5 cm



Acquired on the London, UK, art market in the 1990s. Ex London, UK, gallery.

Comprising a trilobed plaque with three applied domes, granulation, sturdy hook to the reverse; Read's Class D Type 6; a high quality example in exceptional condition. 3.98 grams, 25 mm



Found whilst searching with a metal detector in Ryedale, North Yorkshire, UK, in 2022, by Matthew Lee-Smith. Returned to finder after being disclaimed as Treasure with case tracking no.2023T221. Accompanied by a copy of the British Museum's Portable Antiquities Scheme (PAS) report no.YORYM-708E7A. Accompanied by a copy of the letter from the British Museum disclaiming the Crown's interest in the find.