School of Vetka, Old Believers, late 18th - early 19th century - "Joy to all those who weep", tempera on wood and full gold background, depicting the Virgin Mary standing and crowned, holding the Child Christ blessing. She is surrounded by suppliant figures - the sick, the poor and the afflicted - imploring her intercession, as well as saints. At the top, Christ Pantocrator appears in the heavens, flanked by two angels carrying liturgical banners. A dense, symmetrical composition, typical of Vetka icons, with a strong narrative and decorative dimension. H. 35.5 x 31 cm This icon carries a powerful message of consolation and hope. It is invoked to soothe the sick and bring comfort to the afflicted. Its golden brilliance and rich narrative are characteristic of the Vetka school, a major centre for the production of icons by the Old Believers, now located in Belarus, who perpetuated a sacred art faithful to pre-Reformation Russian traditions. Condition: Cracked and missing around the edges