Christ Pantocrator, Northern Greece, possibly 13th or 14th century with later restoration

with the gospel in his left hand and making the sign of the trinity with his right, gilt background, tempera on wood.

The left side of the reverse of the panel has been partly cut off; the lower border has also been cut off. The panel has deteriorated due to woodworm (old). Flesh colouring on hands and face damaged. The lettering has been restored, probably in 19th or 20th century. We would advise propsective buyers to view.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The panel and composition of the icon have an archaic quality, reminiscent of Greek icons from the 13th and 14th centuries. However it is difficult to establish a concrete dating due to more recent high quality restoration. The hands, face and hair bear a subtlety you would expect from an icon of this period but these elements contrast with a heavy gilding, which may have been added later. In order to fully attribute the icon to the 13th or 14th centuries a more thorough investigation is required.