Russian or Greek Orthodox Icon of the Virgin and Child (Eleusa), with Wax Seal, 19th century.

Tempera and gold leaf on carved wooden panel, 19.75 × 16 in. (50 × 41 cm).
A beautifully executed icon depicting the Virgin and Child in the Eleusa (“Tenderness”) type, showing the Virgin Mary with the Christ Child pressed to her cheek in an intimate, compassionate gesture. Rendered in vibrant red, green, and gold tones, the icon captures the spiritual warmth and emotional immediacy typical of late 18th-19th century Orthodox iconography.
The reverse of the panel retains an early wax seal impressed with an image of the Virgin and Christ Child and surrounding Cyrillic inscription, likely indicating ecclesiastical provenance. The thick wooden support with horizontal braces shows natural age cracking, wear, and smoke patina, consistent with devotional use.
Condition: Surface abrasions, craquelure, and minor losses to gilding, especially along lower edge; structurally stable with original cross-bracing intact.
Provenance: Private collection, Quebec.