Show all images on one page	#007545 Title: Icon Archangel Michael Artist: Rizhskaya Valeriya Size: 13.7x18.5x2 Size (inches): 5.5x7.25x0.75 Price : $750 SOLD!

Rizhskaya Valeriya from the village of Kholui created this marvelous work showing St. Michael who is the leader of the forces of heaven in their triumph over the powers of hell. Michael is revered in Catholic tradition and liturgy as the protector of the Church, as once he was regarded as the protector of the Israelites. In the Eastern Church, as well as among many theologians in the West, St Michael is placed over all the angels, as prince of the Seraphim. He is the special patron of sick people, mariners, and grocers; in Asia Minor many curative springs were dedicated to him. His cult has also been popular in Egypt, Rome, France, and Germany. His emblems are a banner, a sword, a dragon, and scales. The name Michael is a variation of Micah, meaning in Hebrew, "Who is like God?"
The composition is dominated by green and red tones. The background is bright blue. Gold highlighting is added throughout the scene so expertly, that the ultra-thin lines blend seamlessly into the painting. The artist is able to achieve elegant detailing that really makes this scene come alive.
The scene is framed with magnificent and rich gold floral ornamentation.
This icon has been painted in the village of Kholui on the wooden base. According to the tradition of Russian icon painting, the work is painted in egg tempera paints and detailed with brilliant gold paint. The leaves of gold is also used to create a frame around the depicted icon.
Very often Palekh, Mstera and Kholui artists paint icons, and this decision isn't influenced by a fashion or a public demand. It is a century-old tradition. The schools of Palekh, Kholui, and Mstera appeared under the influence of icon painting.