Post Medieval Weather Vane Finial

Mary cradling the infant Christ, Greek text in the field with inscription 'ΜΡ ΘΥ' for 'Mother of God' flanking the Virgin's halo, 'IC XC' for 'Jesus Christ' over the Child's head; to the right a Greek inscription 'ΟΔΙΓΗΤΡΙΑ' (Odighitria); some restoration; a handwritten inscription and a cross to the reverse in Greek, reading 'Eufemia Papadimitriou - born on March, 30, 1932, on Thursday, at the 5.00 p.m.; Vasilios Papadimitriou - born on March, 15, 1934, on Thursday, at the 3.00 p.m.' 614 grams, 29 cm

The timber shows some old insect flight holes and we are advised that this piece has been recently treated with Permthrin, as a precaution.

Ex French gallery, Paris.

The icon belongs to the category of Virgin 'Galaktotrophousa' (Γαλακτοτροφουσα, meaning “the Milk-Giver”) celebrated on third July, and showing Mary breast-feeding Jesus. The ancient typology dates from the 6th century A.D. and resided in St. Sabbas’ lavra (a type of monastic community).

Comprising: Roman period mirrors, Bronze Age pancake ingot, cup weight; dog-head barrel tap; 1st century B.C. coiled repoussé bracelet, together with other miscellaneous items. 4.2 kg total, 4.5-23 cm



Acquired 1990s-early 2000s. East Anglian private collection.

Cylindrical with domed terminals with apex pellet and pelletted ribbing, ridge of suspension loops, body adorned with horizontal bands of filigree wire and pellets; hollow-formed. 90 grams, 10.1 cm



From the private collection of the late Mr S.M., London, UK, thence by descent.