the strongly stylised figure of St John depicted in a rocky landscape with sparse vegetation looking up at the blessing hand of Christ appearing in a dark blue segment of heaven in the upper right corner, his right hand raised and holding an open scroll with his left hand, with an inscription in Church Slavonic: ‘Repent ye, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand’; the intimate icon painted in a refined style, the poor clothing on the emaciated body of St John accentuating his ascetic way of life in the desert

H. Roozemond-van Ginhoven (ed.), Ikon, Inspired Art, Echteld 1980, cat. no. 52.
A. Vicini (ed.), exh. cat. Icona, Volto del Mistero, Milan 1991, pp. 176-177.

Only some traces left of the original gilding of the border and background of the icon, parts of the lower border and background of the icon covered with later levkas, the right arm, hand and the flesh coloured part of the body the body of St John largely repainted, the text on the open scroll partly re-written, some further minor retouching all over the painting
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."