Cypress wood diptych with micro-carving - Greece, Mount Athos 18th century

A cypress wood diptych carved with the Holy Trinity and the Virgin and Child.

Mount Athos, Greece, 18th century.

Measures 7.5 x 5cm when open, each leaf measures 5 x 3.8cm.

This fine miniature diptych is carved to the left leaf with the holy trinity to the centre and the right leaf with the Virgin and child, each is surrounded by sixteen male Saints. The reliefs are partially painted and pierced with a red background, glazed with mica. The diptych is secured when closed by a brass latch. Each panel bears the ancient collection number ’6542’.