The Icon of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul from Karakallou Monastery
Icon's Historical Insight
Located in the proskinitari of Karakallou Monastery's main temple, this icon miraculously survived an intense fire that consumed the entire church. Traces of the fire can still be seen on its back.
The two apostles are depicted in a heartfelt embrace. As described by iconographer, Hieromonk Dionysius, "Peter joyfully greets his fellow student, while Paul joyfully meets his friend". Dressed in blue chitons and imations, with ochre for Peter and red for Paul, the silver riza dates from a later period. The golden background bears the inscriptions "Saint Peter" and "Saint Paul", which were later replicated at the top of the icon.
Iconographic Significance
This theme in Byzantine art captures the lives of saints, solidifying post-iconoclasm, either as a part of the apostles' lifecycle or as a standalone theme. It symbolizes the meeting of the foremost apostles in Rome, representing ecumenical peace and brotherhood, echoing the shared feast day of the apostles on July 29th.
A representative work of the Cretan school, this icon is believed to have originated in the early 17th century. However, later datings suggest the end of the 15th or beginning of the 16th century. It's attributed to a Cretan iconographer who followed the thematic tradition of Angelos Akotantos, a pioneer in emphasizing this theme during the 15th century.