Of particular significance are two stunning 13^th century Novgorod panels depicting the Descent into Hell and Ascent to Heaven of the prophet Elijah.

From the Middle Ages to modern times, the collection charts each stage in the history of Russian icon painting through its numerous artistic centres, from the illustrious schools of Moscow, Novgorod, Vladimir, Tver’ and Pskov to the provincial areas of central and northern Russia.

The collection stands out for its large number of 18^th and 19^th century pieces, the period following the reforms of Tzar Peter the Great which has not yet been widely explored.