Artwork

Sfântul Mare Ierarh Nicoale

Sfântul Mare Ierarh Nicoale, by Unknown, 1850
Sfântul Mare Ierarh Nicoale, by Unknown, 1850

Sfântul Mare Ierarh Nicoale is a drawing by Unknown. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the ASTRA National Museum Complex.

About this work

Overview

Sfântul Mare Ierarh Nicoale is a religious image depicting a bearded, crowned figure in vibrant attire, set against a foliate background. The subject holds a cross and a small figure, with the name 'Nicoale' inscribed in Cyrillic script.

Subject & Meaning

The figure is identified as Saint Nicholas (Nicoale), a revered Christian saint, through the Cyrillic inscription and iconographic elements (cross and potentially a soul or child in the other hand). The regalia and cross signify his saintly and ecclesiastical status.

Technique & Style

The painting exhibits a simple yet intentional aesthetic, characterized by bold outlines, flat colors, and a lack of deep shading, suggesting a folk or traditional approach rather than a refined, realistic one.

History & Provenance

Limited information is provided about the artwork's history. The worn, dark wood frame indicates age, but the exact date, artist, and origins remain unspecified.

Context

The use of Cyrillic script for 'Nicoale' hints at the piece's potential Eastern European or Slavic origin, aligning with regions where Saint Nicholas is deeply revered and Cyrillic was in use.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known