Saints Nicholas, Metropolitan Peter, Sergius of Radonezh, Antony Pechersky & Nikita the Martyr, Stroganov or Moscow, First half of the 17th century

painted in the Stroganov style

The background has been stripped and the border has possibly been regilded in the 19th century. A vertical crack running through the centre of the icon 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."

Nikita Stroganov (1562-1618) appears as a patron Saint on many of the icons  of the Stroganov School, as he was one of its main proponents. He is shown here exactly as on the large icon from the beginning of the 14th century in the Sol'vychegodsk Cathedral of the Annunciation, not in a soldier's uniform but in a long tunic with precious hems and a red chlamys (mantle). Stroganov icons are notable for their bright colour schemes, deriving from the Novgorod School and for the graceful elongation and exaggerated grace of their figures, which this icon, of extreme refinement and typical of the best painting of this period, captures beautifully.