A Russian Icon of the Annunciation with Silver Oklad, Yaroslavl, 18th century

the icon depicting the Archangel Gabriel appearing to the Holy Virgin, the borders with SS. Gurii, Samon, Aviv, protectors of the domestic realm, and St. Catherine; the silver oklad and gilded silver halos, Moscow, 1878, with unidentified maker's mark

the icon with some small losses and restoration and the oklad with some small dents and slight bowing, all consistent with age
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.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The iconography of this icon suggests that it was commissioned for presentation to a woman named Catherine (Ekaterina) on the occasion of her wedding or the birth of a child.  The Annunciation was an appropriate subject for any woman awaiting a child and Saints Samon, Gurii and Aviv are well-known protectors of the domestic realm.  The addition of St. Catherine/Ekaterina  is probably a reference to the recipient.  Individual motifs in the composition such as the staff in the Archangel Gabriel's hand had already appeared in the 18^th century,  yet the particular organization of the iconographic elements – including the smaller, preparatory "Annuciation at the Well" in the background – is quite rare.