Russia(?) 19th century, Saints Guri, Samon and Aviv

A popular icon in Orthodox culture of the holy martyrs from the time of Emperor Diocletian: Samon, Guri and Aviv. Three saints with crosses and incense sticks in their hands. Christ separated by a band of clouds above them. An image of St. Catherine is depicted on the bordure.
Tempera on board.
Dimensions: 36,5 x 31,3 cm
Condition as in the pictures.
The composition is maintained in the classical iconographic scheme, with a clear division between the earthly and heavenly zones. The figures with elongated proportions, hieratic poses and concentrated facial expressions are rendered according to the canon of icon painting. The background is covered with gold (or gilding), symbolizing the sphere of the sacred and the timelessness of the representation. A devotional work, originally intended for private or church worship. It retains high historical and iconographic value as an example of traditional sacred painting.