Saint Nicholas Orthodox Icon Value Guide

This Greek Orthodox icon from the late 19th to early 20th century represents a profound link to Byzantine spiritual traditions, featuring Saint Nicholas in traditional episcopal vestments. Hand-painted with egg tempera on a gessoed wooden panel, it serves as a significant example of post-Byzantine religious art intended to bridge the material and divine worlds.

What Is Saint Nicholas Orthodox Icon Worth?

The typical price range for Saint Nicholas Orthodox Icon is $350 - $420 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The preservation of the painted surface, specifically the clarity of Saint Nicholas's facial features and vestment details.
• The presence and condition of original gold leaf gilding, which significantly enhances the icon's market value.
• The structural integrity of the wooden panel, including the absence of severe warping or woodworm damage.
• The inclusion and condition of the original period-correct wooden frame.

How to Identify Saint Nicholas Orthodox Icon?

• Look for specific Greek lettering identifying the saint, which distinguishes it from Russian or Slavic variants.
• Examine the surface for the characteristic matte finish of egg tempera paint applied over a white gesso ground.
• Check for natural age-related cracking (craquelure) on the wooden panel and the presence of traditional gold leaf accents.
• Verify the construction of the wooden frame and panel, which should show signs of hand-tooling consistent with the 1880-1920 era.

History of Saint Nicholas Orthodox Icon

The tradition of creating icons, or holy images, dates back to the Byzantine Empire, serving as a cornerstone of Orthodox Christian worship. Saint Nicholas, known for his piety and miracles, is among the most frequently depicted saints. Icons are typically painted using egg tempera on wood, following strict theological and artistic canons, aiming to bridge the gap between the material and the divine. This specific depiction, identified by the Greek lettering, reflects a style common in post-Byzantine and Greek iconography.