A four-panel Russian icon depicting the crucifixion of Christ and the Holy Protectors, Late 19th century

Tempera on panel

Height x width: 38 x 32 cm Weight: 1172 g.

This specific type of object, structured around a central focal point and divided into compartments, was historically created to meet the needs of private and domestic devotion: it allowed families to gather within a single panel the most venerated miraculous images and patron saints, providing comprehensive spiritual protection for the household. The theological architecture of the work develops along the central vertical axis, dominated by the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ. The cross is depicted in the typical three-bar form of the Russian Orthodox tradition, with the lower bar (*suppedaneum*) shown at an angle. On either side of the horizontal arm, inserted into two intermediate compartments, appear the sorrowful figures of the Holy Women: the Virgin Mary on the left and Saint Mary Magdalene on the right, both portrayed in an attitude of profound mourning. Above the cross, among the clouds, appears the figure of God the Father receiving the sacrifice of His Son. The remaining surface is divided into four large independent quadrants: Upper left: The Mother of God of Kazan, the supreme palladium and historical protectress of the Russian nation, depicted in half-length form with the Christ Child standing upright, facing forward and giving a blessing.

Upper right: Saint Nicholas of Myra (the Wonderworker), the most beloved saint of the Orthodox pantheon, protector of travelers and those in need, represented in the act of blessing and holding the Gospel. Lower left: The Archangel Michael as commander of the heavenly hosts, depicted riding a fiery red winged horse while sounding the trumpet of the Last Judgment, an apocalyptic iconography associated with protection against the forces of evil. Lower right: Saint George slaying the dragon, the quintessential warrior saint, shown on a white horse in the act of piercing the beast, symbolizing the triumph of Faith and divine justice.