Antique Russian Icon. "The Great Martyr George the Victory Bearer". Oil on wood. Saint George is shown as a mounted soldier who strikes at a dragon with his lance as the Princess Elisava kneels in fear (at left). The very melodramatic pose of the Princess shows a strong influence of the West on art of this period. According to tradition, George came to Silene in the province of Libya, where a ravaging dragon demanded daily sacrifice. Fate chose the king's daughter but George subdued the beast as Princess Elisava stood watching. George told the princess to fasten her sash to the dragon?s neck so that it could be led through the town for the conversion of the people. After this, the dragon would then be killed. Size: 12.5 x 10 inches.