Saint George Slaying the Dragon Icon Value Guide

This 19th-century Greek icon features a dynamic depiction of Saint George on horseback, utilizing the traditional repoussé metalworking technique to create a striking relief. It is a significant piece of Eastern Orthodox history, symbolizing the triumph of faith over evil through its detailed rendering of the dragon and observing figures.

What Is Saint George Slaying the Dragon Icon Worth?

The typical price range for Saint George Slaying the Dragon Icon is $250 - $300 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The preservation of the bronze relief, specifically the lack of significant dents or loss of detail in the floral patterns.
• The condition of the wooden backing and whether it remains structurally sound without significant warping or insect damage.
• The intricacy of the secondary figures and the dragon, as higher detail levels typically command the $300 price point.
• The presence of a natural patina on the bronze, which collectors prefer over chemically cleaned or polished surfaces.

How to Identify Saint George Slaying the Dragon Icon?

• Examine the bronze overlay for authentic 19th-century repoussé craftsmanship, characterized by hand-hammered depth and texture.
• Verify the Greek origin through the specific stylistic rendering of the floral background and the architectural details of the balcony figures.
• Check the wooden substrate for signs of age-appropriate wear and oxidation where the bronze meets the wood.
• Look for the distinct iconographic composition of Saint George on horseback, a hallmark of Eastern Orthodox military saint depictions.

History of Saint George Slaying the Dragon Icon

Religious icons, particularly those depicting Saint George, have been central to Eastern Orthodox Christianity for centuries. Saint George, a revered military saint, is famously known for the legend of him slaying a dragon, symbolizing victory over evil. Such icons served as focal points for prayer and devotion, often passed down through generations. The technique of repoussé, used to create the relief, has roots in ancient metalworking, bringing depth and texture to these sacred images.