Icon of Saint Kosmas the Aetolian

Icon Details

Medium: Egg tempera
Dimensions: 40 cm × 30 cm
Style: Ancient Byzantine
Collection: Private Collection

Description

Byzantine icon of Saint Kosmas the Aetolian, holding the Gospel and blessing with his right hand. The icon is painted in egg tempera on wood, with a gold-leaf nimbus and a platinum-leaf background.

This Byzantine icon depicts Saint Kosmas the Aetolian, the great Orthodox missionary and teacher of the faith. Painted in egg tempera on wood, the icon features a gold-leaf nimbus symbolizing divine light and a platinum-leaf background, emphasizing the saint’s heavenly wisdom. The icon measures 40 cm in height and 30 cm in width.

Iconography

Saint Kosmas is portrayed wearing a simple monastic habit, reflecting his ascetic life and devotion to Christ. He holds the Holy Gospel, symbolizing his mission to spread the Orthodox faith throughout the Greek lands. His right hand is raised in a traditional blessing gesture, emphasizing his role as a spiritual guide and teacher. The delicate golden detailing in the nimbus and the reflective platinum background enhance the icon’s sacred presence.

Artistic Technique

This icon was crafted using traditional Byzantine techniques, employing natural pigments and egg tempera, a method that has been used for centuries in Orthodox iconography. The application of gold leaf and platinum leaf creates a striking contrast, elevating the spiritual depth and radiance of the icon. The fine brushwork and intricate detailing give the saint’s face a contemplative and serene expression.

Significance

Saint Kosmas the Aetolian was a renowned Orthodox missionary, preacher, and martyr who traveled extensively to educate and strengthen the faith of Orthodox Christians during the Ottoman era. His teachings, prophecies, and dedication to the faith made him one of the most beloved saints in the Greek Orthodox Church. He was martyred in 1779 and is commemorated on August 24.

Creation Process of the Icon

Below, explore the creation process of this sacred icon—from its earliest sketches to the final application of gold and platinum leaf. Click on an image to enlarge and learn more about each stage of the process.