Offered is a magnificent mid-19th century Russian Orthodox icon of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, finely cast in bronze and decorated with richly colored cloisonné enamel. Measuring approximately 10.5 cm x 9.5 cm (4.13" x 3.74"), this piece was likely intended for personal devotion or travel, yet retains a striking level of detail and presence.

Saint Nicholas is shown in his traditional episcopal vestments, blessing with his right hand and holding the Gospels in his left. In the upper corners are miniature reliefs of Christ (left) and the Mother of God (right) presenting him with the Gospel and omophorion — a classic iconographic motif symbolizing his divine ordination.

The surrounding border features hand-chiseled and vibrantly enameled floral designs in blues, greens, whites, and yellows — a hallmark of Russian cast-bronze enamel icons from the mid-1800s.

Inscriptions (in Cyrillic):

Above Christ (left): Господь Вседержитель – "Lord Almighty"

Above Virgin (right): МР ΘУ – Greek abbreviation for "Mother of God"

Center top: Св. Николай Чудотворец – Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker

Back Note: A handwritten label reads:

“Bronze – cast ©1850. St. Nicholas. TAW 1997 N.Y.”

This suggests the icon was in a New York collection as of 1997, providing a helpful point in its modern provenance.

Condition:

Excellent condition for its age with a beautiful aged patina and vivid enamel colors.

Some expected surface wear and light verdigris present at the edges, but no significant damage or restoration.

The icon retains its original hanging loop at the top.

Dimensions:

Approx. 10.5 cm x 9.5 cm (4.13" x 3.74")