Auction pick up of a Russian icon (?) on wood. Is it old old?

Hello everyone! I don't usually pick up art work much from auction houses as the shipping can be a little too much, but for smaller pieces I make an exception. I picked up, what I think is a Russian icon painted on wood. It is heavy and measures 14.5"L x 10"W. I could only find a few online that were similar, one suggesting 17th century (it does look old with the cracking and old wood worm holes). I have contacted James L.Jackson of Jackson Auctions in IA, USA as the Russian department there seems to be quite an authority on Russian art (I can let you know what they say if anyone is interested!). I would also love to hear your opinions on the piece. I will sell on at some point but keen to find out more first. Thanks as always

 

How was it represented in the auction where you bought it? I'm nothing close to an expert, but my immediate impression is that the painting on the front is remarkably unblemished compared to the distressed condition of the wood as seen from the back. Do the edges of the panel show any sign of having once been part of a triptych?

 

Here's another. 17th century according to seller.

https://auctionet.com/en/3017702-ik...mit-jesusknaben-17-jahrhundert/images#image_8

 

I'd be interested in knowing how Jackson Auctions replies to your message.

 

Hi there. The auction had it listed as, "VIRGIN MARY AMOLYNTOS PAINTING ON WOOD" with the measurements, that's it! I don't believe it was part of a triptych but I will take another look.

 

Well, I got a quick response that it is in fact only vintage and artificially aged. Likely a Greek tourist piece! Oh well, I was fooled. Onwards and upwards lol

 

Icons are a difficult area, and you are more likely to get a recent souvenir or a fake than a genuine old one.

In this case one of the telltale signs was that the paint also covered the "weathered" cracks and crevices.
A true icon painter would make sure the entire surface was as smooth as a baby's bottom, using many different ground layers before starting on the icon (image) itself.

That is another sign. Recently painted on old wood, probably a shutter panel from a demolished house. It was intended to fool buyers, so not even an honest religious souvenir.

Icons are made in the entire Orthodox and other Eastern Christian world, btw, not just in Russia.

 

Thank you, always learning!