The Holy Icon of Saint Menas from Simonopetra Monastery on Mount Athos

Icon of Saint Menas of Egypt from Simonopetra Monastery

The Holy Icon of Saint Menas from Simonopetra Monastery on Mount Athos
The Holy Icon of Saint Menas from Simonopetra Monastery on Mount Athos

Held in reverence within the iconostasis of a chapel bearing the same name in Simonopetra Monastery, located in Karyes, is the miraculous icon of Saint Menas. Recognized for its divine attributes, the saint is particularly invoked for assistance in retrieving lost items. Devotees light a lamp before this icon, seeking his intercession. As legend has it, monks from Kerasia brought this iconic piece here.

Description of the Icon

The icon can be visually divided into two segments. The upper section, which covers three-quarters of the surface, showcases Saint Menas in full view. Simultaneously, the lower segment depicts saints Victor, Metrophanes of Constantinople, and Vincent, also facing forward.

Garbed in a soldier's attire, Saint Menas stands holding a cross in his right hand, a shield in his left, his visage framed by a silvery mane and beard. Young martyr saints Victor and Vincent are portrayed in the dress of patricians, sporting short dark hair and beardless faces, each holding a cross of martyrdom. Saint Metrophanes, positioned centrally, is depicted in priestly garments, holding a closed Gospel in his left hand and bestowing blessings with the right.

Added in a later period, a silver-gilt riza envelops the icon's entire surface, except for the depicted saints' heads and hands. Three distinct techniques embellish the icon: engraving for geometric motifs, bas-relief for the saints' robes, and enamel for inscriptions and floral motifs.

Historical Significance

Inscriptions hold special prominence in the icon. "Saint Menas of Egypt" is engraved in blue against the icon's backdrop. The names of saints Victor, Metrophanes of Constantinople, and Vincent stand out in deep blue above their halos, which feature shades of blue and white. White and blue intertwine in a floral design, originating from buds with sea-colored leaves, interspersed with brown rays. Based on its stylistic features and donation inscription, the icon was painted in 1852 by Hieromonk Makarios (1796-1866).