Icon of Saint Alexander Nevsky holding a sword and a scroll with the inscription in Church Slavonic: "God is not in power, but in truth." Egg tempera on wood.

Icon of Saint Alexander Nevsky

Icon Details

Medium
Egg tempera
Chalk ground (gesso)
On linden board
Using gold leaf
Dimensions
40 cm × 30 cm
Style
Ancient Byzantine
Collection
Private Collection

Description

Icon of Saint Alexander Nevsky holding a sword and a scroll with the inscription in Church Slavonic: "God is not in power, but in truth." Egg tempera on wood.
Icon of Saint Alexander Nevsky holding a sword and a scroll with the inscription in Church Slavonic: "God is not in power, but in truth." Egg tempera on wood.

This hand-made icon depicts Saint Alexander Nevsky, the legendary warrior prince of medieval Rus', a saint of the Orthodox Church. The icon is painted in egg tempera on wood, in the ancient Byzantine style. Its dimensions are 40 cm long and 30 cm wide.

Iconography

Saint Alexander is portrayed wearing a red cloak over chainmail armor, signifying his dual role as a warrior and a Christian ruler. In his right hand, he holds a scroll inscribed in Church Slavonic with the words: 'God is not in power, but in truth.' This phrase, attributed to him, reflects his deep Christian faith and his belief in justice over brute strength. His left hand rests on the hilt of his sword, symbolizing his role as a defender of Orthodoxy.

Artistic Technique

The icon was created using the traditional technique of egg tempera, with natural pigments from natural minerals (cinnabar, lapis lazuli, hematite, ochre, etc.) and gilding with gold leaf and platinum. The background (representing the spiritual world of light) is a rich dark blue (lapis lazuli), contrasting with the gold details and the bright red cloak, which gives the icon depth and expressiveness.

Significance

Saint Alexander Nevsky is revered by the Church as the protector of the Russian land and a Christian example of righteousness in the post of grand princely service. His memory day is celebrated on November 23 (December 6 according to the Julian calendar). This icon, like all icons of Saints who pleased God, serves as a bright reflection of his faith, love and humility, his selfless service to Divine truth.

Creation Process of the Icon

Below you can explore the process of creating this sacred Icon, from the initial sketches to the final stage of painting. Click on the image to enlarge it and learn more about each stage of the work.

  • Final version of the icon: Saint Alexander Nevsky.
  • Step 1 of 30: Progress in painting the icon: Saint Alexander Nevsky.
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  • Step 23 of 30: Progress in painting the icon: Saint Alexander Nevsky.
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  • Step 27 of 30: Progress in painting the icon: Saint Alexander Nevsky.
  • Step 28 of 30: Progress in painting the icon: Saint Alexander Nevsky.
  • Step 29 of 30: Progress in painting the icon: Saint Alexander Nevsky.