Rare pair of icons depicting the life of Saint Nicholas. Levkas and tempera on wood (restorations). Northern Russia, 16th century. One of the icons depicts Saint Nicholas freeing 3 unjustly condemned prisoners, while the other shows Saint Nicholas appearing to Governor Eulavius while he was sleeping. These scenes illustrate the story of the miracle of the three generals who were sent by the emperor Constantine to stop an insurrection in Phrygia during a famine. Having accomplished their mission, they were unjustly condemned and accused of treason by the governor of Constantinople, Eulavius. During their imprisonment, they prayed to Saint Nicholas, who appeared to Constantine and Eulavius in a dream to reveal the truth. H: 38.5 cm - W: 31 cm and 34.5 cm