Post Medieval Bronze Flower Mount

Comprising: bearded prophet holding a processional cross; shepherd with crook, ewe and lamb; each hollow to the reverse. 185 grams total, 71-86 mm



Private collection, UK.

Executed in oil and tempera on a slightly curved wooden panel base depicting the Theotokos (Mother of God), the infant Jesus and Saint Rock on a natural background; Mary with head bowed left wearing a red maphorion mantle over a dark blue robe, with elaborate golden saltires on the shoulders and head of the mantle, fine gold brocade to the hem of the blue robe, nursing the child; the infant Jesus facing away to left, supported on Mary's right arm and dressed in gold tunic, wrapped in a red shawl with gold highlights to folds, both hands holding the mother’s breast; the long-haired Saint Rock covered in a black tabarrino marked with his attributes, the red cross, the pilgrim's staff, the scallop shell and the keys, holds his walking stick in his hand; trees and mountain profiles in the background; gilded wooden frame surrounded by a blue indigo border with gold arabesques; from the Veneto-Cretan guild. 857 grams, 32.5 x 27.5 cm



Acquired on the European art market. Private collection, London, UK. Accompanied by an academic report by Dr Raffaele D’Amato. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no. 13065-249292.

The icon presents the type known in Greek as the Galaktotrophousa and in Russia as Mlekopitatelnitsa. Originating from the pagan iconography of Isis nursing Horus, the icon presents the Mother of God nursing the child. As is typical in traditional Orthodox iconography, conscious effort is made to remove the image from reality. That is why Mary’s breast is so oddly depicted and placed near her shoulder — an attempt to avoid any trace of sensuality.

Bifacial double cross with two angels at the base carrying the cross, applied figures of Corpus Christi and Virgin Mary to one side with an inscription 'CAR VACA'; separately made reverse panel with openwork panels and foliate decoration; made as a reliquary. 101 grams, 13.7 cm



Acquired on the UK art market, early 2000s.

The Caravaca Cross, also known as the Cross of Caravaca, originated in the Spanish town of Caravaca de la Cruz and according to tradition, first appeared in the 13th century during the Christian reconquest of Spain. According to a legend, during the rule of the Muslim king Abu Zeid in 1231, a miraculous event occurred. A Christian priest lacking a cross celebrated Mass and was not able to continue as the cross is an essential element for the Eucharist. Miraculously, two angels bearing the Caravaca Cross appeared thus enabling the Mass to proceed. This event is considered the foundational miracle of the Caravaca Cross.