Mother of God of the Burning Bush, Central Russia, late 18th century

the corners depicting Moses' vision of the Burning Bush, an angel bring burning coals to St Ezekiel, Jacob's vision, St Ezekiel's vision, with a fine cast and chased silver-gilt oklad, the central panel with applied halos on a sunray ground, borders with Pan-Slavic strapwork, Prokopy Nikitin, Moscow 1860, 84 standard 

The panel is slightly bowed. Two supports struts inset into the panel at the top and bottom. There is a vertical crack approx 36cm to the left of the central motif, consolidated. There is some raised craquelure to the top right quadrant of the icon. The lower corners are slightly cracked and the paint work appears to have been restored. Other areas of overpainting throughout particularly to the borders. The gilt paint is worn and lacking at the edges of the icon. Small areas of craquelure throughout the centre of the icon. Losses to the paint work at the Virgin's head and to the bottom right side of her robe. Losses to the halo of the angel below the Virgin. Further losses to the gesso of the angel to the upper right side of the virgin. Some evidence of overpainting throughout. There is general denting to the edges of the oklad. There is minor wear to the oklad throughout consistent with age and use. The support pins are lacking. We would advise perspective buyers to view this piece. This is a very fine and decorative icon.
"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."