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Stunning antique Eastern Christian Orthodox tempera-on-wood religious icon, possibly Coptic given the backside Arabic writing. Greek inscription visible on front side. Likely from the 18th or 19th century and unknown origin, possibly Middle Eastern, specifically Syria, Lebanon, or Palestine, and has at least circulated within the Middle East. All gathered from a probable Levantine Christian context. The icon seems to be culturally mixed but a historically normal combination.
Evidence pointing to that of St. Anthony via the greek inscription on front on either side of the head reading “The Venerable Anthony” which is to be exactly to be expected as the standard label on icons for Saint Anthony the Great.
Inscription (via translation) on reverse seems to be a note of the late owner or finder’s memo stating the icon was “found” in 1928, although still unknown when the icon was originally from, though likely to be 18th century given all physical appearance clues.
Displays beautiful yet significant craquelure, surface wear, and paint loss, see all photos for stunning details.
