Icon of Saint Paul of Xeropotamou

Icon Details

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

Description

Byzantine icon of Saint Paul of Xeropotamou, founder of Agiou Pavlou Monastery on Mount Athos. Painted in egg tempera on wood, the icon depicts the saint holding a scroll, symbolizing his monastic teachings.

This Byzantine icon depicts Saint Paul of Xeropotamou, the founder of Agiou Pavlou Monastery on Mount Athos. Painted in egg tempera on wood, the icon reflects the saint’s ascetic life and spiritual dedication. The piece measures 40 cm in height and 30 cm in width.

Iconography

Saint Paul is portrayed in simple monastic robes, emphasizing his humble and ascetic lifestyle. He holds a scroll, symbolizing his spiritual wisdom and contributions to Orthodox monasticism. The saint’s serene yet intense expression reflects his deep inner prayer and dedication to the ascetic life. The icon's background, devoid of gold leaf, enhances the focus on the saint’s spiritual purity rather than material splendor.

Symbolism

The scroll in Saint Paul’s hand represents his role as a teacher of the monastic life and a guide to spiritual wisdom. The absence of ornate decoration or gold leaf highlights the simplicity and humility central to the Athonite monastic tradition. The use of darker tones and the somber color palette reflect the spiritual depth and ascetic struggles of Saint Paul’s life.

Artistic Technique

This icon was crafted using traditional Byzantine techniques, with natural mineral pigments and egg tempera on wood. The absence of gold leaf allows the subtle use of color and shading to bring out the saint’s features, focusing on spiritual depth rather than material beauty. The delicate brushwork highlights the intricate folds of the saint’s robes and his expressive facial features.

Significance

Saint Paul of Xeropotamou is renowned as the founder of Agiou Pavlou Monastery on Mount Athos, one of the most significant monastic centers in Orthodox Christianity. His dedication to the monastic life and his contributions to the Athonite monastic community have made him a revered figure among Orthodox faithful. His feast day is celebrated on July 28.

Connection to Mount Athos

As the founder of Agiou Pavlou Monastery, Saint Paul of Xeropotamou holds a special place in the history of Mount Athos. His life and works contributed to the development of the Athonite monastic tradition, emphasizing asceticism, prayer, and communal living. The monastery continues to be a focal point of pilgrimage and spiritual growth for Orthodox Christians worldwide.

Creation Process of the Icon

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