Terms and Conditions

Please make sure you are familiar with our terms before you make a purchase.

Age and Authenticity Guarantee:
We unconditionally guarantee all items to be genuine antique objects and not modern reproductions. Since icons are traditionally not signed or dated, the stated age is an approximation based on our experience and deep knowledge of the subject. We do guarantee that, to the best of our knowledge, each item is dated within 50 years of the indicated age. (i.e. if it dated as “Mid - 19th century,” we guarantee that the icon is at least 120-130 years old.)

Learn about our Unconditional Lifetime Guarantee and No Questions Asked 30-day return policy.

Condition:
Because the items we sell are at least 100 years old (and some are a staggering 700 years old!), they almost always exhibit some wear and minor damage such as insignificant paint loss, craquelures and dirt on the surface, missing back pegs, warped and / or minor restorations. Even though we try our best to report any significant condition problems or major restoration, it is always a good idea to inquire for a condition report prior to purchase. “Original condition” in our description means “not restored.” Keep in mind - most of old icons were cleaned at one point or another and their original lacquer was removed, because due to its composition, over time it became dark and dirty obscuring the underlying painted image. Also, icons often have damage to outer borders that are frequently restored and/or have touch ups. Many older icons were restored several times over their life time and are described as “with original restorations.”

Methods of Payment:
We will gladly accept the following forms of payment:

• Bank wire transfer
• Bank certified checks or money orders in US$
• Personal checks (existing clients only)
• Major credit cards
• PayPal
• Western Union or MoneyGram money transfer
• Cash in US$ or Euros
• Cash payment in Moscow and St. Petersburg is also possible for some items
  

Please indicate your preferred method of payment and we will provide the necessary instructions.

Certificates of Authenticity:
Certificates of Authenticity (CoA) are available upon request for an additional charge of $50 each. The certificate is a laminated document which provides a photograph and description of your item and, upon request, its insurance value. The cost of CoAs is not refundable.

Ability to Reserve Items.
Most items on our web site can be reserved for up to 30 days with nonecessity of a deposit. Unfortunately, we cannot hold inventory items on reserve for over 30 days with an exception of special circumstances which are determined by us on a case by case basis. Unpaid reserved items become available for sale to others as soon as 30 day period is passed.

Layaways:
We offer up to 90-day layaway payment plans subject to a 20% non-refundable deposit. On high priced items, we would be happy to discuss a custom layaway plan tailored around your specific requirements.

Returns:
We offer a “no questions asked 30-day money back guarantee” on all items. If you are disappointed by your purchase upon receipt, please contact us to arrange its return either for a refund or credit towards another item.* Needless to say, the item must be returned to us in its original condition to be eligible for a refund. Please make sure to pack very securely and consider purchasing insurance covering loss or damage in transit.

Shipping:
We will gladly ship worldwide. Based on your location, we choose the most appropriate method of shipment and insure the package to cover the entire purchase price. We will provide you a shipping quote and advise on the best way to ship your purchase. With an exception of unusually bulky or heavy items, we do not charge a handling or supplies fees on top of standard shipping charges.

* Layaway and procured-to-order items are not refundable in cash, store credit only, Certificates of Authenticity are not refundable.