| Popis: |
The article is devoted to the analysis of depiction and artistic features of the icon "The Exaltation of the Cross, with additional plots", which appeared on the antique market in 2020 and was acquired by a private gatherer, thanks to which the artifact became available for studying for the first time. The icon was painted by the outstanding Nevyansk icon painters Bogatyrevs in 1843 by order of the famous mining expert G. F. Zotov, whose story stirred up public opinion in the second quarter of the 19th century. This image of complex iconography is not only a rare dated and signed monument of icon painting, but also a kind of historical document. The article reveals three most important topics related to this monument. Thanks to a full reading of the commemorative inscription on the lower field of the icon, it has been established that the icon was painted in memory of the release of G. F. Zotov from exile by Tsar`s order on September 14, 1841. The analysis of the unique iconographic program, and the plots depicted as well as the texts of the inscriptions led the author of the article to the conclusion that the icon, written according to a special, deeply thought-out program, contained self-justification of G. F. Zotov and a kind of his encrypted message to descendants. According to its artistic merits, and perfection of composition, subtlety of painting, and exquisite color, the icon becomes one of the best works of the Nevyansk icon painters Bogatyrevs and can serve as a reference work for this recognized school of Old Believers’ icon painting. However, in addition to its highest artistic merits, this unique monument has all the signs of a historical source containing valuable and previously unknown facts of the biography of G. F. Zotov, an outstanding figure of the metallurgical industry of Russia. |
