Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
This is a commemorative wooden pocket icon depicting Saint Herman of Alaska, one of the most beloved saints of the Orthodox Church in America. The reverse features a gilded commemorative inscription marking the bicentennial of Orthodox Christianity in North America, issued under the blessing of Patriarch Aleksiy II of Moscow.
Story
In 1794, a humble monk named Herman arrived in Alaska as part of the first Russian Orthodox mission. Two centuries later in 1994, this commemorative icon was created in Russia to celebrate his enduring spiritual legacy across the Americas.
Maker / Origin
This icon was manufactured by Sofrino, the official state-sanctioned workshop of the Russian Orthodox Church located just outside Moscow. Established during the late Soviet era, Sofrino became the epicenter for reviving traditional ecclesiastical arts, combining modern printing techniques with historic spiritual designs.
Condition & Value
The icon is in very good condition with minor edge wear on the front print and light surface scuffs on the lacquered wooden back. Excellent preservation of the gold lettering on the reverse. Value is driven primarily by its commemorative nature and religious significance rather than antique age.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.