Orthodox icon "St. Nicholas" Niello & Gilding

This version of Saint Nicholas, the Wonderworker, features significantly more silver than the lighter variant in the same format: 925 sterling silver with niello hand-engraving and partial gilding, mounted on a wooden frame. A heavy, prominent riza icon for the home altar or prayer corner.

At a Glance

• Material: 925 Sterling Silver, Niello hand-engraving, partial gilding, wooden frame
• Motif: St. Nicholas (Nicholas the Wonderworker)
• Dimensions: 161 x 131 x 25 mm
• Weight: approx. 420 g
• Finishing: Niello ornaments, gilding of central elements
• Origin: Russia
• Hallmark: 925 silver stamp present
• Scope of delivery: Icon in gift box

Material and Workmanship

The icon follows the riza construction: the painted image of Saint Nicholas in bishop's vestments with crosses and the Gospel book is enclosed by a silver oklad, which in this version covers a larger part of the image area than in the lighter variant — hence the higher weight of approx. 420 grams for the same format of 161 x 131 x 25 mm. The niello hand-engraving introduces dark contrasts into the ornamental lines, while the gilding is selectively applied to central elements such as the halo and frame edges. The 925 hallmark is present.

Use and Occasions

Nicholas of Myra is considered one of the most revered saints in the Orthodox tradition, invoked as the patron saint of travelers, children, and sailors. This heavier version is particularly suitable as a significant main gift for Easter or Christmas, for a name day, or as a luxury gift where the weight of the silver should correspond to the importance of the occasion. Due to its high silver content, the piece is also of particular interest to collectors of Russian niello silver icons.

Care

• Dry, soft cloth for polished and gilded surfaces — no silver cleaning agents
• No silver immersion bath — niello inlays and gilding would be damaged
• Storage in a gift box or on the wall, not in direct sunlight

Frequently Asked Questions

What distinguishes this icon (420 g) from the lighter variant (265 g)?

Both depict Saint Nicholas in the same format of 161 x 131 mm. The difference lies in the silver content: this version weighs around 155 grams more because the silver oklad covers a larger part of the image area. The lighter variant is fully gilded, while this one features niello ornaments with partial gilding — a different visual character.

Can the icon be mounted on the wall?

Yes. The wooden frame is designed for hanging, so the icon can be displayed hanging or standing.

Is engraving possible on this icon?

Engraving is possible upon request, depending on the available surfaces on the frame. Please contact us if you are interested.

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