The value of an icon depends on its age. To perfectly understand the features of antiquities, you need to have a good understanding of painting and know by heart the work of famous artists, and not only of modern times.
Instruction manual
1
Remember that not all painted icons are valuable, especially if it is an icon of the 20th century. Icons of Soviet times will be valuable after some time. But one rule for determining the value of an icon works without a doubt - the older it is, the greater its value.
2
Consider the icon - if it depicts a special religious event, and even the author is a famous icon painter, then the value also increases. The talented performance of the icon, the original manner play an important role. Icons are very appreciated in schools of writing (for example, Stroganov's writing is quite rare). The plot may be non-standard and with small pictures along the edges (with stamps).
3
Of great importance is the artistic quality, faith - official Orthodoxy or Old Believers. Especially if the icon is written by hand, and not in an industrial way - it always has significant monetary value.
4
Consult a specialist for help. Experienced antique dealers determine the age of the icons by the type of board on the reverse side, but not everyone is able to do this correctly. Most often, the assessment is based on the color, quality of the drawing, composition, freshness of the idea. If possible, consult with several specialist antique dealers. It is better if these people are museum workers with vast experience.
5
Do not try to determine the value of icons from photographs, as full information about its price is impossible to say. But do not apply for evaluation to people little known to you and your friends or colleagues. You can be deceived, and you will sell a valuable rarity for nothing. Do not give the icon for restoration to little-known expert centers - you just risk not getting your own thing back in its original condition.
