The Dormition of the Virgin, Central Russia, 17th Century

Mary lies on her deathbed with eyes closed, her head resting on a red pillow, the twelve apostles are standing to the left and right, Peter in the left foreground, behind the bed John on the left and Matthew, on the right, bowing to pay their last respects to the Mother of God, in the foreground the impious Aphonious attempts to overthrow the bier, but is forestalled by the appearance of an Angel with a drawn sword, Christ appears behind the bed holding Mary's soul, wrapped in white cloths, above him a fiery seraph soars

In overall very good condition. Almost no retouching. The halos have been regilded, the background and the upper border of the icon have been stripped down to the gesso, leaving the original gold title visible. We would advise prospective 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."