Catalogued as 19th century at their auction on on August 5-7 and estimated at just £200-300, the 141/2 x 111/4in (37 x 29cm) panel drew bidding from three telephone lines as well as a buyer in the room and was taken up to a final £23,000 plus 20 per cent buyer's premium.
From a private source and in exceptional condition, it is now thought to be an original 17th century piece.
St George is one of the most popular subjects in Russian iconography. Not only the patron saint of England, the third century Roman dragon slayer is also the patron saint of the city of Moscow, as well over ten other cities worldwide.
The Bellmans sale saw two further Russian icons from the same source and with the same estimate sell for high prices. One depicting The Mother of Christ made £5200, while another of Jesus and Attendants made £5000.
