Byzantine icon of Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker, holding the Gospel and giving a blessing, flanked by Christ and the Theotokos. Painted in egg tempera on wood with a gold-leaf background.

Icon of Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker

Icon Details

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

Description

Byzantine icon of Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker, holding the Gospel and giving a blessing, flanked by Christ and the Theotokos. Painted in egg tempera on wood with a gold-leaf background.
Byzantine icon of Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker, holding the Gospel and giving a blessing, flanked by Christ and the Theotokos. Painted in egg tempera on wood with a gold-leaf background.

This Byzantine icon depicts Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker, flanked by Christ and the Theotokos (Mother of God). Painted in egg tempera on wood with a gold-leaf background, this sacred icon reflects Saint Nicholas’s role as a protector, intercessor, and defender of the faith. The icon measures 40 cm in height and 30 cm in width.

Iconography

Saint Nicholas is portrayed wearing traditional bishop’s vestments, holding the Holy Gospel in his left hand and offering a blessing with his right. To his right, Christ presents him with the Gospel, while to his left, the Theotokos offers him the epigonation (a symbol of episcopal authority). This iconographic depiction is rooted in a miraculous vision experienced by Saint Nicholas after he was unjustly imprisoned for defending Orthodoxy at the First Council of Nicaea (325 AD).

Symbolism

In Orthodox iconography, Saint Nicholas is a symbol of justice, compassion, and divine intercession. His blessing hand signifies his role as a spiritual guide, while the Gospel represents his unwavering commitment to the teachings of Christ. The presence of Christ and the Theotokos emphasizes his heavenly approval and the grace bestowed upon him as a saint. The gold-leaf background signifies his closeness to God and the divine light that surrounds him.

Artistic Technique

This icon was created using traditional Byzantine techniques, including natural mineral pigments and egg tempera. The application of gold leaf enhances the spiritual radiance of the icon, giving it a luminous, divine quality. The intricate detailing of Saint Nicholas’s facial features and vestments reflects the artist's mastery of Byzantine iconography.

Significance

Saint Nicholas of Myra, also known as Nicholas the Wonderworker, is one of the most beloved saints in the Orthodox Church. Known for his miracles, acts of charity, and defense of Orthodoxy, he lived during the 4th century and served as the Bishop of Myra in Lycia (modern-day Turkey). His feast day is celebrated on December 6, and he is revered as the protector of sailors, children, and the poor.

Miraculous Vision of Saint Nicholas

The depiction of Christ and the Theotokos in this icon refers to a miraculous event during Saint Nicholas’s imprisonment after the First Council of Nicaea. It is said that while in prison, Saint Nicholas received a vision of Christ handing him the Gospel and the Theotokos presenting him with his episcopal garments. This vision confirmed his righteousness and reinforced his role as a true defender of the Orthodox faith.

Creation Process of the Icon

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

  • Final version of the icon: Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker.
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