Lot 0263
Russian Icon of Saint Seraphim of Sarov with Silver Oklad and Enamel, Ivan A. Alexeev, Moscow, 1899–1908
Estimate: 8000-12000€
Russin Icon of Saint Seraphim of Sarov
Moscow, Ivan Alexeevich Alexeev, 1899-1908.
Tempera on wood, silver oklad, enamel.
Marked: maker’s mark of IAA; 84 zolotnik silver standard, Moscow assay mark. Dimensions: 22,7 x 18 x 3,3 cm.
A refined icon in pseudo-russian style depicting Saint Seraphim of Sarov, shown half-length in monastic habit and epitrachelion, with his right hand placed upon his chest in a gesture of prayerful humility. The saint’s ascetic face, softly modelled and framed by a long pale beard, is set within an elaborate silver oklad, while the halo is enriched with polychrome enamel ornament of stylised foliate scrolls in blue, white, red, and pale green. At the lower border – plaque with the saint’s name in blue cloisonne enamel.
The icon was produced in the workshop of Ivan Alexeevich Alexeev, a Moscow silversmith and owner of a factory founded in 1876, known for silver icons, folding shrines, and other devotional objects in 84 standard silver. Alexeev’s works, marked “И.А.” or “И.А.А.”, are valued for the quality of their execution and for their characteristic combination of silver mounting and enamel decoration.
Comparable items: https://www.sothebys.com/en/buy/auction/2025/faberge-imperial-revolutionary-art-l25113/a-parcel-gilt-cloisonne-and-champleve-enamel-icon-2 https://www.christies.com.cn/en/lot/an-important-cloisonne-enamel-silver-gilt-triptych-icon-6321969/?intObjectID=6321969&lid=3
Starting price: 6000€
Estimate: 8000-12000€
Hammer Price: €




































