19th century Russian icon

19th century Russian icon.
"Saint Nicholas".
Painting on wood.
It is glued in its central part. Cracks and losses in the painting. Needs restoration.
Measurements: 42 x 37 cm.

In the Byzantine art, Saint Nicholas is represented with a wide forehead and white beard, and dressed like a Greek bishop; that is to say, with white felonion and omophorion. Although it is not visible in this icon, in his left hand he holds the book of the Gospels, while with his right hand he makes a gesture of blessing.

Saint Nicholas of Bari is one of the best known saints of Christianity. Although little is known about his life, it is said that in Asia Minor he was bishop of Myra and that he was persecuted and captured by the Romans in the 4th century, being later freed by the emperor Constantine I. In the 11th century his relics were taken to Bari (place of pilgrimage), Italy. He has become the patron saint of Bulgaria, Greece and Russia.