Orthodox Icons & Sacred Art in Our May Auction (26–27 May)

This May, Jordaens N.V. presents a captivating group of Orthodox religious icons—a category prized for its spiritual symbolism, meticulous craftsmanship, and timeless decorative power. From classic depictions of Christ Pantocrator to tender images of the Theotokos (Virgin and Child) and revered saints, these works carry centuries of visual tradition—created to be contemplated, collected, and preserved.

Orthodox icons are more than devotional images. They are a distinct art form with a unique visual “language”: frontal figures, symbolic gestures, gold-toned grounds, and inscriptions that identify holy figures and scenes. Collectors value icons for their history, hand-painted character, and patina, while interior designers and art lovers appreciate their ability to bring warmth, depth, and presence to a space.

Highlights in this collection

In this selection you’ll find a variety of icon types and styles, including:

• Christ icons (often shown frontally with blessing gesture and gospel book)
• Theotokos/Virgin icons, some with the Christ Child—deeply popular among collectors of sacred art
• Saint icons, including bishop/holy men representations commonly seen in Orthodox tradition
• Narrative or multi-scene icons featuring several episodes or panels—highly collectible for their storytelling nature
• Icons with metal riza/oklad (decorative covers) that protect and frame the painted image, adding rich texture and a striking contrast between metalwork and paint
• Traditional wood panel construction with visible age character—exactly what collectors look for when searching for authenticity and atmosphere

Why collectors love Orthodox icons

Orthodox icon collecting sits at the crossroads of art history, spirituality, craftsmanship, and cultural heritage. Many collectors focus on:

• Iconography and subject (Christ, Theotokos, Saint Nicholas, feast scenes, guardian saints)
• Technique and materials (tempera-style paint, gilding, lacquer-like surfaces, metal overlays)
• Aged patina and surface character (aesthetic depth that modern replicas can’t replicate)
• Display value (icons work beautifully in both classic and modern interiors)

Whether you collect Russian icons, Byzantine-style icons, Eastern Christian art, or you’re simply drawn to pieces with strong presence and history, this group offers compelling opportunities.

Visit the viewing days: 22–23 May

We strongly recommend attending our viewing days (22 & 23 May) to appreciate details that photos can’t fully capture—surface texture, subtle color layers, reflective metalwork, and the depth of aged materials.

Auction dates: 26–27 May

Bidding takes place on 26 & 27 May. Explore the catalogue, shortlist your favorites, and bid with confidence on a curated selection of religious art and antique icons.

Call to action:
👉 Browse the catalogue, save your lots, and join us on viewing days to inspect these icons up close. Then place your bids on 26–27 May.